Charmadi Ghat highway set for widening: Work likely to begin in January 2025

 Mangaluru: The much-awaited project to widen the Charmadi Ghat road into a two-lane roadway is on the verge of realization. If processes like land acquisition and departmental clearances proceed smoothly, construction is expected to commence within a few months.

The contract for the project has been awarded to SLV Construction (CHNV Reddy), which secured the bid by quoting 41% less than the estimated cost. The current plan is to expand the existing road to 10 meters in width, from its current 7 meters at some points and just 5.5 meters at others.

Funding and Progress:

The Union government has sanctioned Rs 343 crore for the project. However, the tender was finalized at Rs 175 crore. The remaining funds will be utilized for other related expenditures like relocation of electricity poles, water pipelines, and providing compensation for land acquisition. The project covers the first 11 km of the ghat road in Dakshina Kannada district up to the 12th curve, with the stretch beyond that falling under Chikkamagaluru district currently awaiting a Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Benefits of the Project:

The Charmadi Ghat road is a critical route for passengers and goods transportation between the coastal region and the hinterland. Upgrading this road will ease travel, boost trade, and enhance economic activity in the region. “This project will significantly contribute to the development of the coastal belt, known as Karnataka’s commercial gateway,” stated MP Brijesh Chowta.

Challenges During Construction:

The construction, scheduled to be completed within 48 months, may cause temporary traffic congestion. Authorities are planning to regulate traffic where possible during the construction phase. In unavoidable circumstances, traffic might need to be halted for a month or two.

Environmental Concerns:

Charmadi Ghat, part of the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats, receives heavy rainfall and has strict limits on development activities. Forest officials have confirmed that a tree survey is pending, and tree removal will proceed only after approval.

Scope of Work:

1. Clearing of trees, poles, and land leveling along the existing road.
2. The current road will be widened to 10 meters to create a two-lane stretch.
3. Building drains, culverts, and some bridges for smooth rainwater flow.
4. Erecting retaining walls and preventive structures to avoid landslides and rockfalls.

Executive Engineer Shivaprasad Ajila of the National Highways Division, Mangaluru, confirmed that the tender process is complete, and acceptance letters have been issued to the contractors. The agreement process is pending, with work expected to begin in January 2025.

Deputy Conservator of Forests Antony Mariyappa stated that a tree survey will be conducted after the contractors file a formal request. “This will determine the extent of land and the number of trees to be removed along the road,” he said.

 

Translated from Kannada article by Dinesh Ira