The long-awaited upgrade of Charmady Ghat to a two-way road is set to commence in January 2025, contingent on the timely completion of land acquisition and departmental clearances.
SLV Construction (CHNV Reddy) has been awarded the project, having bid 41% lower than competitors. The revamped road will be widened to 10 meters, similar to the Punjalakatte-B C Road stretch, compared to the current width of 5.5 to 7 meters in some sections.
The project has a ₹343 crore budget, with ₹175 crore designated for road construction and the remainder for compensation and utility relocations. The initial 900-meter stretch of Charmady Ghat, surrounded by private land and houses, will require substantial compensation, along with the relocation of electricity poles and water pipes.
Stretching 25 km, Charmady Ghat spans both Dakshina Kannada and Chikkamagaluru districts, with 11 km under Dakshina Kannada. Work on the approved section up to the 12th bend in Dakshina Kannada will begin, while the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Chikkamagaluru’s portion is still under preparation.
Capt. Brijesh Chowta, MP for Dakshina Kannada, highlighted the economic and logistical benefits of the upgrade, particularly for the coastal region. The project is expected to take 48 months, though periodic closures of the ghat, potentially lasting up to two months, may disrupt traffic.
Conservator of Forests Antony Mariappa stated that tree and plant assessments are pending and will proceed once the contractor appeals for land clearance.
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