The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Bengaluru): Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced imminent approvals for the construction of underpasses and foot overbridges, along with improvements to entry and exit points on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway. This commitment was made during a ceremony in Mysuru, where Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation for 22 national highway projects, covering 268 km and involving an investment of ₹4,036 crore.
The assurance follows requests from Mysuru MP Pratap Simha and Mandya MP Sumalatha Ambareesh for enhancements to the Bengaluru-Mysuru corridor. Gadkari committed to sanctioning the proposed infrastructure improvements within a 15-day window, highlighting the government’s prompt response to local demands for safer and more accessible highway facilities.
Additionally, Gadkari emphasized the inclusive nature of these upgrades by ensuring that the planned foot overbridges would accommodate the needs of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities through the installation of lifts.
The minister also shared updates on broader transportation initiatives within Karnataka, including the sanctioning of 16 ropeway projects totaling ₹5,000 crore. This ambitious initiative will enhance connectivity and accessibility to various tourist and religious sites across the state, including Kodachadri, Anjanadri, Madhugiri, and Chamundi Hills.
In response to calls for peripheral ring roads around Mysuru and Hassan, Gadkari indicated the central government’s willingness to proceed once the state agrees to cover half of the land acquisition costs.
Gadkari’s announcements reflect a comprehensive approach to improving Karnataka’s transportation infrastructure, aiming to facilitate smoother travel and bolster the state’s appeal as a destination for both tourists and residents. With projects such as the Bengaluru-Chennai express highway and the Mysuru-Kushalanagar corridor in progress, the minister’s efforts signify a significant leap towards modernizing the state’s roadways and enhancing connectivity.