Once regarded as a prosperous and progressive assembly constituency in Karnataka, Sringeri is now grappling with alarming neglect and deterioration. Locals lament that the region urgently needs improvements, as nearly every sphere—roads, bridges, and public offices—has fallen into disrepair.
The constituency includes Sringeri, Koppa, Narasimharaja Pura taluks, and Khandya Hobli of Chikkamagaluru taluk. Despite housing three “mini” Vidhana Soudhas meant to support governance, all are reportedly in dire condition. Leaking ceilings hinder staff from performing their duties effectively, an official disclosed anonymously.
Infrastructure is equally worrisome. Most roads—national highways, state highways, and district routes—have turned hazardous due to neglect and damage from last year’s monsoons. According to social activist Kalkuli Mallappa Hegde, repairs are overdue, and the use of sub-standard materials has worsened the crisis.
Frequent road accidents have become a grim reality, with a recent bus mishap near Balehonnur injuring multiple tourists. Residents like Shekara accuse MLA T D Rajegowda of blaming opposition parties for years while failing to improve the situation despite holding power.
Agriculture has also suffered, as yellow leaf and leaf spot diseases continue to damage areca crops. Encounters with wild animals have further strained rural livelihoods.
Though Koppa tahsildar Likitha Mohan said renovation of administrative buildings is underway with a Rs 2.5 lakh budget, conflicting accounts persist over their condition. Efforts to contact MLA Rajegowda and deputy commissioner C N Meena Nagaraj for comments were unsuccessful.