Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)

Mangaluru, Nov 7: “Repairs to Shiradi Ghat road between Hassan and Mangaluru affected by landslides is completed. The road will be open to heavy vehicles from November 12,” said Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Sasikanth Senthil.

Addressing media at his office, he said, “We have no objections for heavy vehicles from our side. “But there is a problem in Hassan district. As repairs are almost completed, heavy vehicles will be allowed to ply along with light vehicles,” he said.

“As traffic density is more during Deepavali, heavy vehicles were not allowed. Those will be allowed after November 12 after Deepavali celebrations,” assured DC Sasikanth Senthil.

Speaking on sand issue, he said, “Extracting sand at non-CRZ areas will be given priority in Dakshina Kannada district. As many as 76 places have been identified as sand extraction yards within the CRZ limits. Priority will be given for non-CRZ areas for sand extraction. As of now, 22 blocks have been identified as non-CRZ. Two of them have been issued licence for sand extraction and tender has been invited for rest of the 20 blocks.

“Earlier, the rule for the tender was that applicants’ must have yearly business of around Rs 25 lac. The rule has now been changed to Rs 5 lac. Earlier, the validity for tenders was for one year whch has now been extended to five years. Due to the changes in the rule, several people have come forward to apply for tenders.

"Among the identified non-CRZ blocks, sand extraction at seven blocks are reserved for government development works. Control room has been formed to fix prize of sand. If anyone demands more money than the actual price as per the guidelines, complaint can be made,” said DC.