Shivamogga: The Union govt has allocated Rs 400 crore for the widening of the Agumbe Ghat Road, which will reduce traffic congestion, said Shivamogga MP BY Raghavendra on Saturday.After he chaired a meeting with district officials and discussed plans to either construct a tunnel or widen the existing road, he suggested a tunnel project. He said the funds are available, but the project faces a lot of hurdles.Raghavendra emphasised the need for careful consideration, involving the state govt, officials, and environmentalists, to decide the best approach. “The amount was sanctioned for road widening in this stretch, but there are environmental concerns too as landslides are also a major concern,” he told reporters after the meeting.He suggested that experts, including NHAI officials, will study the proposal to build a tunnel.This project is part of the Rs 1,500 crore National Highway projects planned in Shivamogga district, the MP noted.Raghavendra also instructed officials to construct skywalks or underpasses at major intersections in Shivamogga city, including Sandesh Motor Circle, govt and private bus stations, and Alkola Circle, to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.Existing underpasses at Shivappa Nayaka and Amir Ahmad Circles will be opened for public use during non-monsoon seasons. Plans are under way for underpasses at Shantamma Layout and Gundappa Shed roads.Tarikere bypass project is stalled due to a tree-axing issue, about which Raghavendra urged the forest department to resolve this promptly. He also discussed ongoing projects, including the Shivamogga-Shikaripura railway line.
