Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jan 8: MLA Yashpal Suvarna unveiled plans for the construction of the "Krishna Corridor" in Udupi to ease traffic congestion, during an interaction session held at the Udupi Press Club on January 8.
The project will extend from Kalsanka to Krishna Math and includes a ring road around Udupi town. Additionally, proposals were discussed for an alternative road from Beedingudde to CMC and a traffic diversion route from Beedingudde to Indrali railway station.
Suvarna mentioned, “To tackle traffic congestion, plans for the Krishna Corridor project and the ring road for Udupi town were discussed. These proposals will soon be presented at the government level for further discussions and implementation.”
He also highlighted the need for improvements in drainage facilities due to the growing population. “Areas like Manipal, Malpe, and Kodavoor require a comprehensive drainage project, which is expected to cost around Rs 600 to Rs 800 crore,” Suvarna added. A parking complex will be built at the old KSRTC bus stop to address increasing vehicle traffic, and slum areas will be developed with basic amenities.
On water supply, Suvarna noted that the Varahi Dam project is nearing completion and will ensure 24-hour water supply. “The pipeline testing is currently underway, which is why the roads are dug. Once the project is operational, the roads will be restored,” he said.
Plans are also underway to convert the Mahatma Gandhi Open-Air Theatre in Beedingudde into a cricket stadium to host large-scale events. The City Municipal Council (CMC) plans to take over the development of Manapalla Lake, currently under Udupi district administration. The development will include walking tracks, cycling paths, water sports facilities, and a retaining wall.
Regarding traffic management, Suvarna said, “We have spoken to DYSP about installing CCTV cameras in the city. The highway department has its own rules for traffic signals, and we’ve directed the NHAI to develop plans for Kalsanka. A long-term traffic plan is needed to avoid congestion shifting to other junctions. Traffic signal installations are pending reports from police officials.”
Addressing the rising number of autos, Suvarna added, “The CMC has requested a report from the RTO to assess how many auto-rickshaws are currently operating in Udupi and how many additional permits can be granted. Unauthorized auto-rickshaw stands will be vacated.”
Prabhakar Poojary, President of the Udupi City Municipal Council, emphasized the importance of service delivery. “As per our plan, the water supply price has been reduced starting from December, and we will begin welcoming babies born under CMC jurisdiction from this month. Regarding the Krishna Corridor, we will construct an overbridge, create parking spaces, and widen roads. A blueprint for this will be prepared, and funding for the project will come from the central government, with an estimated budget of Rs 300 crore to Rs 400 crore.”