Tumari Bridge, Karnataka’s second longest, to be built in Shivamogga

SHIVAMOGGA: A bridge between Amabaragodlu and Kalasavalli villages, one of the long-pending demands of the residents in Shravasti backwater region of Sagara taluk, is all set to become a reality in the next three years. Once completed, the 2.14 kilometre-long bridge will be the second longest bridge in Karnataka. It will also have the distinction of the first bridge in the state and the third one in the country which will be constructed using the cableslide technology.
Currently, the longest bridge in the state is the three kilometre-long Korthi-Kolhar bridge across river Krishna in Vijayapura.
Speaking to reporters, local MP BY Raghavendra said the bridge would be built at an estimated cost of Rs 423 crore. “All permissions have been obtained for the project. The tender process will start soon,” he said.
This bridge, popularly called Tumari bridge, will connect Sigandur-Chowdeshwari temple with the main land. Every day, hundreds of devotees visit this temple. Presently, vehicles and devotees reach Sigandur temple using a barge.
“The tender process has been taken up for the construction of the bridge. The work must be completed within 30 months. The successful bidder must maintain the bridge for the next ten years,” the MP said.
“The two major obstacles including a separate non-objection certificate by the Karnataka Power Corporation and forest department have been resolved. Once this bridge is completed, it is expected to bring lot of changes in the area. It is also likely to boost tourism activities,” he said.
“It will provide direct connectivity between Sigandur-Kollur-Mangaluru,” he said.
“Local people put forward this demand before every election. Hope this will not be another such election assurance,” said KR Santosh Kumar, a resident from Shivamogga.