From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Nov 8: The crucial Shiradi Ghat stretch of National Highway 48 linking coastal Mangalore with Bangalore via Hassan must be developed on the lines of the Golden Quadrilateral project by the Centre to boost development of the coastal and malnad region, the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) has demanded.

The National Highway 48 between Sakleshpur and Mangalore is in dire straits and the woefully inadequate infrastructure facilities in the State will act as disincentive for investors in Karnataka, FKCCI President J R Bangera has said in a press release issued on Tuesday.

Bangera said the stretch between Sakleshpur and Mangalore (Shiradi Ghat of NH-48) has to be strengthened on the lines of Golden Quadrilateral to fuel the economic growth in coastal and malnad districts.

“Connectivity to the Mangalore Port is inaccessible due to the bad road in the Shiradi Ghat section. Movement of heavy trucks caused severe damage to the road,” he said.

The FKCCI chief said the state highway from Mysore to Mangalore was also badly damaged and repair works has not been completed. The stretch between Mani to Sampaje has become unmotorable due to potholes.

He urged the Government to complete soon road widening works between Mani to Sampaje to reduce losses to trade, industry and tourism.

In view of the Global Investors Meet to be held in June 2012, the Government has to take steps to improve infrastructure, particularly roads, in the State, FKCCI said.