Mysuru: The project to widen the stretch of Hunsur Road between Kalamandira and Valmiki Road near Jaladarshini Guest House (where there is a curve) began yesterday evening. As per the new proposal, the stretch of the road from the Kukkarahalli Lake side will be widened to prevent accidents. Earlier, it was proposed to straighten the road by chopping over 100 trees.  

The road has now been blocked for traffic from Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa Circle (Metropole Circle) till Valmiki Road Junction where there is a petrol bunk and alternative arrangements have been made. Vehicles coming from Hunsur can proceed via Valmiki Road and vehicles proceeding towards Hunsur can take the road adjacent to Kalamandira. It was earlier proposed to straighten the road to prevent accidents and even the Bhoomi Puja was performed for the Rs. 12 crore project. However, following growing opposition to the project that was bound to destroy the heritage ambience of the section of the road, the plan was altered.

Environmentally-conscious citizens and several Green Groups had opposed the project as it would destroy at least 100 trees. They also argued that the curve in the road was not the cause for accidents and suggested means to preventing accidents without straightening the road. Citizens had even approached the Court against the project.

Speaking, Govindaraju, Assistant Executive Engineer, of National Highway Authority of India, Mysuru said that the 600-metres stretch between Jaladarshini Guest House till the Valmiki Road Junction will be widened giving more room for the motorists to negotiate the turn. “We will carry out the work 24/7 and ensure that the works will be completed by the end of this month,” he added.