Nalin Kumar Kateel, Member of Parliament, called on the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to proceed with the underpass construction at Karnataka Polytechnic (KPT) and Nantoor junctions, along with building a 1.6-km service road connecting the two junctions on NH 66 using the available land.
NHAI Progress and Tree Translocation
During the district development coordination and monitoring committee (DISHA) meeting chaired by Mr. Kateel, NHAI Project Director Abdulla Javed Azmi reported that the removal and translocation of 604 trees in the specified stretch is almost complete, with the exception of a small piece of land belonging to the government’s Karnataka Polytechnic.
Tree Removal Halted Due to Protest
Mr. Azmi explained that tree removal was halted due to protests by students and staff members, especially concerning a 7.8-meter section of the polytechnic’s land required to divert traffic during construction.
Kateel’s Displeasure Over NHAI Work Stoppage
Expressing dissatisfaction with KPT for stopping NHAI’s work, Mr. Kateel reprimanded two of its lecturers in attendance. He questioned their decision to involve students in protests that led to the suspension of NH work, emphasizing that they should have brought their grievances to the Deputy Commissioner.
Forests Deputy Conservator’s Perspective
Deputy Conservator of Forests, Anthony S. Mariyappa, highlighted that the Assistant Conservator of Forest’s September 16 order permitted the removal of 604 trees after hearing objections. The polytechnic lecturers stated that the institution had no issue with land acquisition and was solely concerned about potential risks to its national accreditation if part of its compound were demolished. Mr. Kateel assured them that the compound would be reconstructed.
Challenges in Design and Service Road Widening
NHAI Project Director Azmi addressed design changes for the flyovers and proposed further widening of the 1.6 km service road. These changes are awaiting NHAI approval. MCC Commissioner C.L. Anand was instructed to be prepared to provide additional land if needed following potential acceptance of the modified alignment. Mr. Kateel and other officials remain committed to advancing the construction of these crucial road projects.
