Madikeri: Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna visited B Shettigeri, in Ponnampet taluk, where the Kootiyala bridge is proposed to be built.The project was stalled for 30 years due to legal and environmental challenges. The MLA, who inspected the Kootiyala bridge, said that efforts are being made to find a suitable solution. The Kootiyala road and bridge issue is in court. Ponnanna received information from officials about an alternative route without legal complications.Accompanied by senior officials from the forest department, Ponnanna discussed exploring potential solutions, including alternative routes for villagers to travel to Virajpet town without legal complications. B Shettigeri gram panchayat president Kollira Bopanna highlighted the importance of resolving the road issue, emphasising the benefits to local residents. He explained that if this connecting road is built, many villages will benefit from the nearest route to many places in South Kodagu, including Madikeri.As a small portion of the proposed road area belongs to a forest area legal problems arose, and legal issues are still pending. During the visit, officials provided Ponnanna with details about alternative routes and also considered the challenges of obtaining approval from the Union govt due to the bridge’s location in a forest area. The proposed alternative route involves constructing a bridge near Begur, connecting Hudikeri, which would facilitate traffic and reduce travel distances for villagers from several surrounding areas.The team also discussed measures to alleviate traffic congestion in Gonikoppal. The proposed route would allow villagers from South Kodagu to access Virajpet and Madikeri cities more directly, bypassing Gonikoppal. During the visit, chief conservator of forests (Madikeri circle), Sonal Vrishti, was present.
