Sagara Town (Shivamogga), Karnataka – Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for nine crucial National Highway (NH) projects in Karnataka today, covering a total distance of 88 km and entailing an investment of over ₹2,000 crore. The occasion was marked by the presence of Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi, former Chief Minister Shri B.S. Yediyurappa, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and senior government officials.
Key Projects Inaugurated and Their Strategic Importance
1. Sharavathi Bridge: Linking Malnad and Coastal Karnataka
The newly inaugurated Sharavathi Bridge is a major step forward in boosting connectivity between the Malnad region and Karnataka’s coastal belt. It also ensures smoother access to two major pilgrimage destinations—Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple and Kollur Mookambika Temple, enhancing religious tourism and easing the journey for thousands of devotees annually.
2. Bidar–Humnabad Section Widening (NH-367)
The 47-km-long widening of the Bidar–Humnabad section on NH-367 is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Kalaburagi and Bidar, improving regional trade, commerce, and daily commuting experiences.
3. Restoration of Shiradi Ghat Stretch (NH-75)
Focused on improving safety and monsoon resilience, the Shiradi Ghat stretch restoration on NH-75 will ensure uninterrupted movement along the Mangaluru–Bengaluru corridor—a lifeline for freight and passenger traffic between coastal Karnataka and the state capital.
4. Bridges and Overpasses for Seamless Transit
Two new infrastructure additions include:
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A Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Shahabad
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A new bridge over the Kagina River on NH-50
Both initiatives are aimed at strengthening connectivity between Kalaburagi and Raichur, which are key districts in northern Karnataka.
5. Road Safety Enhancements on Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway
Additional road safety improvements have been introduced on the Bengaluru–Mysuru Access-Controlled Expressway, a vital economic corridor that connects Karnataka and Kerala. These enhancements will ensure faster, safer, and more fuel-efficient vehicular movement.
Economic and Strategic Significance
These NH projects are part of the Government of India’s broader push under Viksit Bharat @2047 to modernize transport infrastructure, reduce logistical costs, and promote balanced regional development. With Karnataka’s position as a key southern gateway, these developments are expected to:
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Boost intra-state trade
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Enhance tourism and pilgrimage circuits
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Improve agricultural and industrial supply chain efficiency
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Generate employment through infrastructure-led growth
Conclusion
The inauguration and launch of these nine projects demonstrate the Centre’s continued focus on transforming Karnataka’s road infrastructure. With enhanced connectivity, road safety, and regional accessibility, the projects are poised to significantly contribute to the economic and social upliftment of the state’s diverse regions.
Source: PIB
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