Dharwad: A permanent solution has finally been found to the long-pending railway gate problem on the road connecting Dharwad to Karnataka University (KU-Dharwad) and further towards Haliyal-Dandeli. Railway underpasses constructed at two critical locations are nearing completion, and vehicular traffic has already been opened on both the stretches.The underpass near Srinagar railway gate (LC No. 299), which lies on the main approach road to KU, was opened for vehicular movement last week. Earlier, about one-and-a-half months ago, traffic was allowed on the underpass near the Haliyal Road railway gate (LC No. 300). The construction work, carried out by Swarna Group of Companies under the leadership of its managing director VSV Prasad, has been in progress for nearly two years, with each bridge built at a cost of Rs 60 crore.Railway gates, a bane for motoristsThe KU Road and the Haliyal-Dandeli road witness hundreds of vehicles everyday. Srinagar served as the main entrance to the university, used by thousands of students, faculty members, parents, and the general public. This road is also a crucial route for commuters, farmers, students, employees, and transport vehicles travelling from Dharwad towards Haliyal, Dandeli, Karwar, and surrounding areas.However, frequent closure of the railway gates — due to passenger and goods trains passing almost every hour — caused long waiting time, leading to frustration among commuters. For years, people waited anxiously for the construction of underpasses to resolve the issue.With the opening of the underpass, smooth and uninterrupted access to KU has brought relief and happiness to the stakeholders. Likewise, heavy vehicles and goods carriers travelling towards Haliyal and Dandeli can now move without hindrance.Convenience with caution“We have been using the Srinagar route to reach the university since our student days, and even now as administrators. Though it was the most convenient route, the railway gate posed a major obstacle. The underpass has greatly benefited everyone visiting the university. However, since four roads converge at the midpoint of the underpass, motorists must exercise caution and drive slowly. Installing proper warning signage would be appropriate,” said a professor. BOXAccording to the original plan, entry to KU through the underpass was permitted only via left and right turns, and these roads have now been opened for traffic. Based on public demand, work is currently under way to provide a direct road as well, which is expected to be completed by April. Construction of the underpass on Haliyal Road is about 80% complete. Once the district administration hands over 22 gunthas of land acquired on the right side, the remaining work can be completed in three months. Following this, both underpasses can be formally inaugurated.V S V Prasad, head of Swarna Group of Companies
