Karnataka has 2.1 cr vehicles; Bengaluru alone choked with over 80 lakh

News Network

April 2, 2019

Bengaluru, Apr 2: In an alarming indication that more number of people are switching from public transport to private commute, Karnataka’s vehicular population has now touched 2.1 crores.

Around 1,750 new vehicles are getting registered in Bengaluru city alone every day and the vehicle population in the capital of the state has crossed 80.45 lakh, said Transport Commissioner V.P. Ikkeri.

During a briefing on the performance of the department in the just concluded financial year 2018-19, Mr. Ikkeri said in the previous financial year, as of March 2018, the number of vehicles registered was 74.06 lakh.

As per the existing provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, it is not possible to restrict new registration of vehicles. However, in the interest of the environment, registration of e-vehicles is being promoted, he said.

Across the State, the total number of vehicles registered went up to 2.1 crore as against 1.93 crore in the previous financial year.

The Transport Department has managed to reach the revenue target fixed by the State government.

The department generated revenue of Rs. 6,168.58 crore against a target of Rs. 6,167.61 crore due to increased registration of new vehicles.

However, revenue from State-run road transport corporations, like KSRTC and BMTC, fell short of the target.

The department is expecting revenue of Rs. 359.48 crore against a target of Rs. 488.81crore. The department had imposed penalties amounting to Rs. 160 crore for various offences.

Implementation of HSRP

The transport commissioner said that the Union government has issued notifications for implementation of rules on high security registration plates (HSRP) for vehicles manufactured from April 1, and it is the responsibility of manufactures to provide high security registration plates.

Officials maintained that the rules do not apply for vehicles that are registered.

“It is a discretionary power of the State government to introduce the rule to already registered vehicles, but as of now the matter is before a court of law,” Mr. Ikkeri said.

He added that after March 2020, vehicles with two-stroke engines will be banned. Vehicle owners must shift to four-stroke engines prior to the deadline.

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Warning! Cancer-causing chemicals found in bakery products, especially cakes in Karnataka

News Network

October 3,2024

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of potentially cancer-causing chemicals in cakes sold by certain bakeries across the state.

Recent tests conducted by the department revealed that some cake samples, particularly those with vibrant colors, contain harmful synthetic coloring agents such as Allura Red, a substance known to pose health risks. The findings have raised concerns about the use of artificial colors in bakery products, especially given their potential link to cancer and other serious health conditions.

"We routinely test various food products, and this time, our officials noticed unusually dark-colored cakes on the market," said Srinivas K, Commissioner of Food Safety for Karnataka. "Upon testing, we found that a few cakes contained Allura Red, a synthetic dye associated with health risks."

The use of artificial colors, especially in popular cakes like red velvet and pineapple varieties, is widespread as it attracts customers, particularly children. However, many bakers prefer using natural, safer alternatives, while some opt for synthetic dyes to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

"Most bakeries use permissible, natural colors that are safe for consumption. Unfortunately, a few are resorting to synthetic dyes just to make their cakes more attractive," said a bakery owner from Electronic City, speaking anonymously.

Medical experts are warning that consuming synthetic colors can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma and allergic reactions.

"Some of these artificial dyes are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure could have serious consequences, especially for children and young adults," cautioned Dr. Vandana G, a private medical practitioner.

While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) confirms that only a limited number of samples tested positive for harmful colors, legal action is being taken against the violators.

"There is no need for widespread panic or halting production. We are closely monitoring the situation, and only a few bakeries were found to be non-compliant. Rest assured, appropriate legal measures are underway," assured an FSSAI official.

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