Rahul Gandhi meets Kerala CM in Delhi, Wayanad's problems discussed

Wayanad MP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on October 1, in Delhi, to discuss the challenges people in his constituency face due to strict bans and traffic regulations in the region. He informed the Kerala CM about the problems and hardships faced by the people of Wayanad due to the night traffic ban on the national highway that passes through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka.

Rahul Gandhi and Pinarayi Vijayan's discussion went on for approximately 20 minutes at Kerala House. Post the meeting with the Chief Minister, Rahul Gandhi addressed the media and said he spoke to the Kerala Chief Minister about the issue of the night travel ban and the anger among the local youngsters for the same. The Kerala Chief Minister assured him that the matter will be taken up with the Centre and a solution will be brought soon.

"This is a very important matter and it needs to be tackled. The Chief Minister assured us that they are apprised of the situation and are trying to resolve it," Rahul Gandhi said.

Along with the night traffic ban, Rahul Gandhi also discussed the major destruction caused by the recent landslides in Wayanad due to heavy rainfall and matters relating to compensating the people were also discussed.

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Pinarayi Vijayan said he will be taking up this issue with Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar, and Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari. 

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi will be visiting his constituency on October 3, to show solidarity with the protestors, Congress sources said. 

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The Night Traffic Ban

The movement of traffic through the Tiger Reserve has been banned from 9 pm to 6 am to avoid any disturbances caused to wildlife. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had written to the Kerala Chief Minister stating that the alternate route can be used for vehicular movement from 9 pm to 6 am. Javadekar also stated that an alternate route, which passes through the forest area, was not a 'Critical Tiger Habitat' and can be suitably mitigated.

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