The road was closed after it collapsed at a few places in the year 2021.
Credit: DH Photo
Mysuru: Even after almost three years, the road leading to the popular monolithic Nandi statue, atop the Chamundi Hill in Mysuru, is yet to be restored.
The road was closed after it collapsed at a few places in the year 2021. Though the restoration works were initiated in December 2022, it is yet to be completed.
With more rains predicted in the month of August, environmentalists fear a recurrence of landslides this year.
It may be mentioned that the road collapsed at a few places twice in 2021, and once in 2022. A portion of the road collapsed on October 20, 2021, raising an alarm. As the authorities started inspection of the stretch, the road collapsed at another spot on November 6, 2021. Cracks were seen on the road at several places again. The road caved in at some more places in October 2022, during rains.
Thousands of tourists and devotees visit Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple, atop the hill, every day. During weekends, holidays and vacations, the number of visitors doubles. The Nandi statue is also a major attraction. There is a separate road leading to the Nandi statue, en route to the hill shrine. The road has been closed for the public for more than three-and-a-half years, after the road caved in.
A major tourist attraction
Rukmini, a resident of Mysuru, said the Nandi statue was a major tourist attraction for those visiting the Chamundi Hill. "Now, they all miss an opportunity to see the monolithic statue that is said to be around 350 years old."
Experts from the Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc), Bengaluru, visited the spot and conducted a study, recommending a process to restore the structural damages, to prevent any landslide in future, using geo-trail technology. The PWD authorities then had assured that the work will be completed by the end of 2023. But even after two years of their deadline, the work is still limping.
Estimated cost Rs 9.75 crore
The works have been estimated to cost Rs 9.75 crore. "All recommendations of the experts have been adopted for restoration of the 350-metre road. As the road is narrow, it is difficult to shift construction materials on heavy vehicles and reverse them. Hence, the work is being taken up carefully in phases, and done in a scientific manner, keeping in mind the sensitive ecology of the Chamundi Hill. The contractor has been issued several notices for the delay," according to an official of the PWD.
"There are some difficulties in executing the works. However, strict instructions have been given to the contractors and the work will be completed soon," said an officer of the PWD.
"It shows the official apathy. Besides, transfer of officials and delay by the contractor are the reasons for the work not being done. Now, it is another rainy season, and the works get stalled again. If there are heavy rains, the possibility of landslides again cannot be ruled out," environmentalists said.