From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jan 14: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is studying the viability of funding the project for developing a tunnel to ease traffic on the ShiradiGhat section of the Bengaluru-Mangaluru National Highway.

The environmental committee of JICA has already taken up examining the entire project, including developing the tunnel, which is estimated to cost Rs 10,000 crore.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Karnataka’s Public Works Minister said the State Government is proposing a project for building a four-lane, 23-km-long pass planned at the ShiradiGhat, which includes 12.41 km of tunnel.

The project would be showcased to investors at the Global Investors’ Meet which was scheduled to be held next month, he said.

The minister explained that better connectivity to a port city like Mangaluru will help improve the economy and business not only in the coastal region but in the rest of the State.

He said the Centre in principle has agreed to declare 12 state highways as national highways to ensure speedy movement of vehicles and boost connectivity.

A total of 1556 kms of state highways would be upgraded as national highways, from the existing two/four lanes to six lanes.

Dr Mahadevappa said the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways NitinGadkari has agreed to develop roads into national highways with total investment by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

However, toll would be collected after upgradation into national highways.

Another two roads – Mysuru-Bannur-Malavalli (50 km) and Khanapura-Yellapura (50 km) state highways - are in the process of approval, he said.

Currently, Karnataka has national highway length of 6432.29 kms.

Among the States, those having more length of national highways are Rajasthan – 7886 km, Uttar Pradesh – 7863 km, Maharashtra – 7040 km, Tamil Nadu – 5006 km, undivided Andhra Pradesh – 7356 km, Kerala – 1811 km.

Dr Mahadevappa, who called on Mr Gadkari in New Delhi a few days ago, said the NHAI would take environment and social impact studies and acquire lands for road widening.

The NHAI would undertake detailed project reports of all roads and pay compensation for those who lose lands for road widening.