Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Jul 8: The Central government has sanctioned a special grant of Rs 49.22 crore for repair works on the Mani–Sampaje stretch of National Highway 275 (NH-275), a key road connecting Dakshina Kannada with the state's interior regions.
Following the sanction, Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta met B Umashankar, secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, on Tuesday and held detailed discussions, urging the ministry to expedite the administrative approval process for the proposed four-laning and upgradation of the highway.
The MP also held extensive consultations on strengthening key road infrastructure in Dakshina Kannada district. Stressing the importance of improving connectivity between the coastal and interior regions and ensuring smoother vehicular movement, Chowta urged the secretary to grant alignment approval and administrative clearance at the earliest for the long-pending upgradation project of the Mani–Sampaje section of NH-275.
He explained that the project is crucial for improving road safety, facilitating seamless traffic movement, and boosting regional economic development. He emphasized the need for implementing the project within a stipulated timeframe.
During the meeting, discussions were also held regarding the proposed Mangaluru–Bengaluru Expressway. Chowta welcomed the approval granted by the Alignment Approval Committee for the new road alignment of the Shiradi Ghat section, which forms a vital part of the expressway project.
He noted that the project is currently in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparation stage, while the processes for obtaining environmental, forest, and wildlife clearances are also progressing.
Reiterating that strengthening road infrastructure in Dakshina Kannada and enhancing connectivity between Mangaluru and Bengaluru remain among his top priorities, the MP assured that he would continue to closely follow up with the concerned Union ministries to ensure the timely implementation of these crucial infrastructure projects in the interest of the district and the coastal region.
Speaking after the meeting, Chowta said that if more people are to return to their native place, the foremost requirement is to provide world-class connectivity in Dakshina Kannada district. He said better road connectivity serves as a gateway to investment, economic growth, and employment opportunities, making Dakshina Kannada a more attractive place to live, work, and build a better future. He emphasized that he remains committed to continuously working until these projects become a reality.
Rs 49.22 crore special grant for highway repairs
As a result of the sustained efforts of the Dakshina Kannada MP, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned a special grant of Rs 49.22 crore under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model for emergency repair works on the entire 71.60-km Mani–Sampaje section of NH-275.
The proposed works are expected to include laying a 40-mm thick bituminous layer across the entire stretch, maintenance of road shoulders, installation of traffic signboards, road markings, and other essential development works to ensure smooth and safe vehicular movement.
Chowta said that the tender process will be initiated at the earliest once the ministry grants financial approval and approves the tender documents.
He further stated that the significant project to upgrade the highway into a four-lane road with paved shoulders has already been included in the 2026–27 Annual Plan. The project is currently at the stage of preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR), and approval for the road alignment is expected shortly.