Centre nod for four-lane CC road under flyover; cost up by Rs 13.9 crore

Hubballi: The Union govt has approved construction of a cement concrete (CC) road instead of an asphalt road beneath the flyover in Hubballi, clearing a long-pending demand from residents and public representatives. The revised project involves an additional cost of Rs 13.9 crore and will cover a 3.5-km stretch. Work is expected to begin within the next few days, with machinery for the project already brought to the city.The approval follows sustained efforts by elected representatives, particularly Hubballi-Dharwad Central MLA Mahesh Tenginkai, who pressed for a CC road in place of the originally proposed asphalt surface. He urged national highways' public works department officials to submit a revised proposal for the change in design. His intervention is said to have been crucial in securing approval for the upgraded roadwork.Residents also repeatedly sought a CC road, pointing to its durability, lower maintenance requirements and suitability for heavy traffic. Compared with asphalt, CC roads are considered more durable and economical over the long term, especially on busy urban stretches with constant vehicular movement.Under the approved plan, the stretch from KC Circle to Hosur Cross, including the Vijayapura Road arm, Gokul Road stretch and the Gadag Road stretch, will be developed as a four-lane CC road. The project is expected to improve road quality, ease traffic flow and provide better commuting conditions beneath the flyover and on adjoining stretches.The project is expected to bring relief to motorists and local residents who have faced inconvenience due to poor road conditions and delays in infrastructure improvement. With approval granted and equipment already on site, expectations are high that the long-awaited roadwork will now move ahead quickly.Mahesh Tenginakai said he has instructed all officials concerned to begin the CC road work immediately. He said work has already started near the IT Park and officials have been directed to take up road construction wherever flyover work has been completed. A review meeting with officials will be held on April 25 or 26, he said.NH PWD engineer Santosh Naganur said the proposal seeking additional funds for construction of CC roads in place of asphalt has been approved and Rs 13.9 crore has been sanctioned.He said preparations are under way to start work immediately, and concrete pavers have already reached Hubballi. After installation of the machinery, work will begin in a couple of days from IT Park to KC Circle. Naganur also added the contractor has been directed to complete the work within three months.