Environmentalists worried about impact of tunnel construction work at Shiradi Ghat

Mangaluru: Environmentalists have flagged concerns over the impact of the tunnel construction work at Shiradi Ghat on mother nature. Recently the government had given a green signal for the project to connect Mangaluru and Bengaluru.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs.10,000 crore. This 23.5km long four-lane tunnel connects Chennai with Mangaluru on a fast track. The construction of tunnel will take place at a stretch of 5.5km only. The experts are of the opinion that on the completion of project, it is possible to cover distance between Mangaluru and Bengaluru within five hours.

It is important to notice that highways and railway tracks already fall on the environmentally sensitive part of Western Ghats and if the tunnel is built parallel to the highway, there is a high possibility of landslides.

Under the Yettinahole project, seven dams have been built already and fours dams under Kempuhole water electricity project. Environmentalists claim that thousands of trees have bene cut for the purpose of constructing tunnel. As a solution environmentalists recommend adding more lanes to the present highway, instead of spending money on the tunnel construction.

Kishore Shiradi, ledaer of Malenadu Hitharakshana Vedike says that adding another lane will prevent the destruction of the environment and reduce financial burden.