MLA submits Rs 13Cr proposal for Katpadi-Shirva road repair

Udupi: Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty said a proposal was submitted for the development of the Katpadi-Shirva stretch, of the state highway, which suffered severe damage due to rains and natural calamities. The estimated cost for the project is Rs 13 crore.

The MLA said Rs 6 crore was proposed to the central govt under the Central Road Fund (CRF) and an additional Rs 7 crore to the state govt's public works department. Despite undergoing four to five rounds of repairs due to heavy rain damage, the road remains in poor condition.

Approval was granted for the Rs 6 crore CRF funding from the central govt, and the tender process is underway. The Rs 7 crore proposal to the state public works department is awaiting approval. The works will begin promptly once the approvals are finalised, Shetty added.

Potholes near Katapady, Subhash Nagar, Kunjarugiri Cross, and Bantakal Engineering College have made this stretch a major concern for vehicle users. Sources said that resurfacing work from Katapady to Bantakal will be undertaken at a cost of Rs 6 crore under the CRF. Additionally, the public works department will carry out further resurfacing at an estimated cost of Rs 3 crore. Plans for road widening on portions of this stretch will also be taken at a cost of Rs 4 crore, said sources.