While the government is ready to close Bengaluru-Mangaluru National Highway for repair work on the Shiradi Ghat, it is said that non-availability of sand is likely to hit the project.
Works are in progress to upgrade 12.38 kms of the stretch from Kempuhole 250.62 km to 263 km at a cost of Rs 61.57 crore. Ocean Construction Private Limited, Mangaluru has been awarded the contract. There are 74 drains on the stretch, out of which 22 have been completed. The remaining works have been suspended due to a shortage of sand.
Speaking to DH, contractor Sharfuddin said that the works would be completed in a week if sand is available. According to the contractor, 26,757 cubic metres of sand is required to complete asphaltation of 12.38 km road. All the other materials like gravel have already been procured and dumped on the site. As sand permits are not issued for the contractors in Dakshina Kannada district, sand is not available. Hence, it is not possible to begin the works now, he said.
Though it was decided to allow lightweight vehicles to ply on the route while the works are in progress, Deputy Commissioner Shashikanth Senthil, who inspected the spot recently has suggested closure of the route in his report, it is said.
Meeting today
Public Works Minister H C Mahadevappa will be presiding over a meeting to discuss the Shiradi Ghat works today at Planters' Club in Sakleshpur. Forest Minister Ramanath Rai, District in-charge Minister A Manju, deputy commissioners of Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, Madikeri and Mysuru will attend, it is said.
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