Shiradi Ghat to remain closed for vehicular traffic from Jan 15

To facilitate repair work and subsequent second phase of concretisation of the Shiradi Ghat stretch on Bangalore-Mangalore National Highway No 48, the road is likely to be completely closed for vehicular traffic from January 15.

Dakshina Kannada District Deputy Commissioner S Sasikant Senthil and PWD Executive Engineer M O Ramesh jointly inspected the stretch, which is earmarked for repair works, recently. A report has been submitted to the Additional Chief Secretary following the spot visit, indicating the essence and early completion of the road project. The report clearly states that the 13-km stretch has to be completely closed for vehicular traffic.

PWD Executive Engineer M O Ramesh stated that a joint inspection was carried out based on the instructions given by District In-charge Minister B Ramanath Rai. The Public Works Department would take a final call on the report’s recommendation, he added.It may be recalled that chairing a review meeting of various development works last month, Minister Rai had directed officials to ensure that the work be started without further delay.

Replying to a question during the Belagavi assembly session on the same issue, Public Works Department Minister Dr. H C Mahadevappa had earlier said that the stretch would be closed for repair work from 1 January 2018.Till the repair work is completed, vehicles would be allowed through Charmadi Ghat, Bisale Ghat and Madikeri.