Metro Ride, Selfies and a Message to Bengaluru: CM DK Shivakumar Travels Like a Common Citizen to Meet His People
Bengaluru, June 7: Hundreds of Namma Metro commuters received an unexpected surprise on Sunday morning when Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar boarded a metro train from Vidhana Soudha station and travelled alongside them like an ordinary passenger on his way to Kanakapura.
What began as a routine metro journey quickly turned into a memorable experience for passengers as the Chief Minister interacted with commuters, posed for selfies, shook hands with young travellers and even distributed chocolates to children during the ride to Silk Institute Metro Station.
The Chief Minister chose to travel by metro to avoid causing additional traffic congestion in Bengaluru while heading to a series of programmes in his home constituency of Kanakapura. After reaching Silk Institute station, he continued his journey to Kanakapura by road.
Selfies, Conversations and a Chocolate for a Child
At Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Metro Station near Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar spent time reading newspapers before greeting passengers waiting for the train.
Young commuters enthusiastically approached the Chief Minister for selfies and photographs. During the journey, he interacted with several passengers and asked them about their metro travel experience.
When a young woman told him that metro travel saves considerable time compared to road transport, the Chief Minister nodded in agreement and discussed Bengaluru’s growing public transport needs.
One of the most heartwarming moments came when Shivakumar handed a chocolate to a child travelling with family members. When another child requested a photograph, the Chief Minister personally took the family’s mobile phone and clicked a selfie with them.
Senior citizens travelling on the train also greeted him warmly, while foreign tourists were asked about their experience using Bengaluru’s metro system.
“My People Took Me to Vidhana Soudha”
Speaking to reporters at the metro station, Shivakumar said the visit was aimed at expressing gratitude to the people of his constituency who had supported him throughout his political journey.
“The people of my constituency have brought me all the way from Doddaalahalli to the steps of Vidhana Soudha. They have stood by me for nearly four decades. It is my duty to thank them and spend time with them,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that many residents of Kanakapura, Sathanur and surrounding areas had been requesting a meeting with him, but official commitments had prevented him from visiting earlier.
Special Officers to Address Constituency Grievances
In a significant announcement, Shivakumar said special officers would be appointed to listen to the problems and grievances of residents in his constituency.
“The people of my constituency are politically aware and disciplined. Even though they expect nothing from me, it is my responsibility to serve them and ensure their concerns are addressed,” he said.
According to the Chief Minister, the officers will act as dedicated points of contact for citizens and help ensure quicker resolution of public grievances.
Concern Over LPG and Diesel Price Hike
Responding to questions on the recent increase in domestic LPG cylinder prices, Shivakumar said he had sought a detailed report on the issue.
He expressed particular concern over the rise in industrial gas and diesel prices.
“The increase in industrial gas and diesel prices is alarming. I have asked for a detailed report and will speak about it on Monday,” he said.
The metro journey offered a rare glimpse of the Chief Minister interacting directly with ordinary commuters, transforming a routine Sunday morning ride into a public outreach exercise that drew smiles, selfies and conversations across Bengaluru’s metro network.
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