Kalladka Flyover Set for Completion in April, NHAI Updates
In a significant update, Abdulla Javed Azmi, the Project Director for NHAI, confirmed that the Kalladka flyover on the Mangaluru-Bengaluru National Highway (NH-75) will be ready for vehicular movement by the first week of April. Azmi made this announcement during a District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting held on Saturday, chaired by Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta.
Project Progress and Pending Work
Azmi highlighted that around 96% of the work from Addahole to Periyashanthi on NH-75 has been completed. However, 400 meters of work remains pending due to a pending court decision on the construction of an elephant underpass. Additionally, 73% of the work from Periyashanthi to BC Road has been completed, with the remaining work expected to conclude by June. The Kalladka flyover is set for completion by March-end, and it will be open to traffic by April. Alongside the flyover, work on the approach roads and service roads in Kalladka town is also underway.
Upcoming Projects and Timelines
Azmi also provided updates on several other major projects. Work on service roads at Mulki-Bappanadu, Padupanambur, Beeri, and Haleyangadi on NH-66 will begin after the monsoon season. The six-lane bridge at Kuloor is currently in progress and is expected to be completed by January 2026.
Local Infrastructure Concerns
Dakshina Kannada DC Mullai Muhilan M P directed NHAI officials to inform local bodies in advance if any pipeline disconnections would be required during the ongoing highway developments. He also emphasized the need for a permanent solution to the landslip issues at Kettikal on the Mangaluru-Moodbidri highway stretch, urging that it be addressed before the monsoon.
Forest Clearance and Shiradi Ghat Closure
During the meeting, Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja raised concerns about the forest clearance requirements for the Charmadi Ghat road expansion project. In response, DCF Anthony S Mariyappa clarified that state-level approval for forest clearance would be granted for up to five acres. However, the exact number of trees to be felled and the area required for the project must be clarified. MP Capt Brijesh Chowta instructed the DC to organize a meeting with contractors and forest officials to finalize the action plan.
Additionally, MP Chowta mentioned that the Shiradi Ghat road stretch is expected to be closed from March 15 to facilitate concreting work from Donigal Cross to Maranahalli in Sakleshpur Taluk. He urged the Dakshina Kannada DC to coordinate with the Hassan district authorities, as this closure would significantly affect the connectivity between Mangaluru and Bengaluru, especially for the port city.