‘Lives more important than trees’

Mysuru: District Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa arrived to perform guddali puja to the road straightening work, the name of which is “Improvement to curve in the black spot of NH 275 in Mysore City limit in front of Jaladarshini Guest House,” after the protesters had left the spot.

Addressing media persons, he said, “The Bengaluru-Mysuru-Bantwal Highway was developed by the NDA Government. The Karnataka Road Development Corporation (KRDC) had developed the project during the UPA and since it was converted into a six lane highway, the National Highway Authority of India was also involved in it.”

He said that funds were released from Central Road Fund (CRF). “If we cut one tree we will plant ten trees in its place. We have as much concern about the environment as the people who are opposing the project. The lives of the people are equally important. The work will begin from tomorrow and will be completed by December or January,” Dr. Mahadevappa said.

MP Pratap Simha said, “According to the statistics available 11 persons have died in accidents on this stretch, which includes a CFTRI Scientist and a Doctor. It is declared as a ‘Black Spot.’ Just as trees are important, lives are also important. Rs. 12 crore is released for the project by the Centre. We have planted 6,000 trees all along the Ring Road. The victims’ families and MLA Vasu also said that the project was important to save the lives of the people. Just because a few oppose the project we cannot listen to them and stop it.”

Breakup

The cost of the road work of 850.00-metre 6-lane (2X10.50 mts and median) is Rs. 462.00 lakh, widening of RCC Hume Pipe culvert at 215.300 km and construction of drain, 1,600 mts Rs. 171 lakh, reconstruction of ornamental compound wall (total of 540 mts) Rs. 95 lakh, construction of retaining wall 300 mts length, 6.50 mts height and “W” metal beam crash barrier 100 mts Rs. 212 lakh, for shifting 650 mts major water supply pipe line at 25,000/mts Rs. 162.50 lakh, for electrical shifting, street lightings and solar blinking lights, cost of afforestation, miscellaneous and rounding off Rs. 55 lakh and miscellaneous (SQM, QC charge) Rs. 42.50 lakh totalling to Rs, 1,200 lakh or Rs. 12 crore.