Fri Nov 15 14:29:29 UTC 2024: ## Road Widening Project in Shivamogga Faces Delays Due to Environmental Concerns
**Shivamogga, November 15, 2024:** The widening of the road connecting Tirthahalli and Agumbe in Shivamogga district has been delayed due to ongoing environmental concerns, according to former Minister Araga Jnanendra.
Jnanendra alleged that the Forest Department is giving undue weight to objections from environmentalists regarding tree felling for the project, despite two public hearings already being conducted. He further stated that the government has already allocated funds for compensatory afforestation, and the project should not be further delayed.
“A few people who are not connected to the project have been raising objections,” said Jnanendra. “The department has not cleared the project even after two public hearings. The project will never be completed if it is further delayed, while many travellers die in accidents on the narrow stretch.”
MP B.Y. Raghavendra, who chaired a DISHA meeting in Shivamogga, urged the Forest Department to expedite the clearance process, emphasizing the project’s importance to the public. He advised the officials to address any concerns raised and approve the project within a reasonable timeframe.
E. Shivashankar, DCF of Shivamogga, acknowledged the objections regarding the number of trees to be felled and assured that the issue will be reviewed.
Meanwhile, Raghavendra confirmed that the Sigandur bridge, being constructed at a cost of ₹423.15 crore across the Sharavathi backwaters in Sagar taluk, is nearing completion and will be ready for a trial run by December. The bridge is expected to be inaugurated next year.
Regarding the Tumakuru-Shivamogga Road project, Raghavendra mentioned delays due to land acquisition issues at 38 locations. He highlighted that land acquisition at 17 locations has been cleared and urged officials to resolve the remaining issues to expedite the project.
First Piper 