HDMC plans to elevate Kittur Channamma statue at KC Circle in Hubballi

Pic: Flyover work at KC Circle, HubballiHubballi: Construction of a flyover at KC circle is currently under way, and as per the approved design, a circular section of the structure will surround the Kittur Channamma statue at the junction. In view of this design feature, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has decided to elevate the statue so that it aligns with the level of the flyover circle.The circular portion of the flyover has been planned at a height of 14 metres above the ground level. Since the statue is located at the centre of this important junction, officials have concluded that it must be elevated to match the new structural setting created by the flyover. The move is being seen as an effort to ensure that the statue remains visually prominent even after the completion of the major infrastructure project.The decision has been taken with the intention of preserving the identity and historical significance associated with KC Circle, which is named after Kittur Channamma and holds strong public and cultural value. Civic authorities believe that if the statue remains at its current level while the flyover rises around it, the landmark may lose its visibility and symbolic importance. By increasing its height, the corporation aims to maintain the stature and recognition of the site amid rapid urban development.For this elevation work, the HDMC has earmarked Rs 5 crore. The allocated amount is expected to cover the planning, structural modifications, and execution required to lift the statue to the proposed height safely and appropriately. The project is likely to involve technical assessment and engineering support to ensure that the raised structure remains stable and aesthetically in tune with the flyover design.The plan reflects an attempt to balance infrastructure expansion with heritage sensitivity. While the flyover is intended to improve traffic movement and reduce congestion at the busy junction, the parallel proposal to elevate the Kittur Channamma statue indicates that the civic body is also mindful of the emotional and historical importance attached to the landmark. With the budget now set aside, the statue elevation is expected to become an integral part of the overall flyover development at KC Circle.HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali said that a tender will be floated for a consultant very soon, and designs will also be invited. Once the consultant is finalised, the work on designing at KC Circle will begin. The plan includes greenery, lighting, and other things at the circle, along with elevation of the statue, he added.