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The state government is expected to launch the work on building three roads to create alternative access from Bengaluru to Kodagu and Hassan districts, by Republic Day.

The new routes --that involve widening and upgrading of the existing roads --are aimed at easing the pressure off Mysuru and Tumakuru roads in the city.

Karnataka State Highways Improvement Project (KSHIP) is developing the roads under the PPP model on hybrid annuity basis using ADB loans. The three roads are estimated to cost Rs 1,484 crore. The organization, which is evaluating the price bids, is expected to award the projects soon.

 

The road construction will take about two years from the zero date. The projects entail 75% construction grant and nine years of concession period which includes two years of construction and seven years of operation and maintenance.

The project packages involve building a four-lane toll road from NICE junction to Magadi on a 36.5 km stretch. The KSHIP will also upgrade the existing two-lane highways from Magadi to NH-75 junction (15 km) near Kunigal and, from Magadi to Somwarpet (166 km) with paved shoulders, truck lay-by, bus lay-by and rest areas. The KSHIP has identified the accident-prone areas, and will correct the geometry of these roads to prevent accidents.

 

Public works minister HC Mahadevappa said the PPP hybrid annuity model has turned out to be huge success in Karnataka inviting praise from the World Bank. They are committed to develop another 400-km over the next three years, which includes two-lanes from Kollegal to Hanur.

 

The new roads via Magadi will benefit even those visiting Kasargod district in Kerala. The government also hopes the upgraded roads will bring about prosperity in villages along the highways, and create jobs for the youth.