The bridge across the Tungabhadra river, connecting the state with Andhra Pradesh, that was washed away during the October 2009 floods, has been reconstructed and is awaiting inauguration by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar.
The bridge has been reconstructed at a cost of Rs 40 crore. Barring some minor civil works, the bridge is ready for vehicular movement.
It assumes much importance as the business and economical growth of the region depends on it besides connecting Mantralayam, one of the famous religious places.
Deputy Commissioner M V Savitri told Express here on Tuesday that Shettar has been invited to inaugurate the bridge. He might be available for the inaugural programme in a week.
People are waiting eagerly for the opening of the bridge as the temporary road laid across the river is not safe. Once water is released to the river from the Tungabhadra dam at Munirabad, the temporary road would be submerged.
The dam is getting sufficient water and water is likely to be released soon.
State bears the cost
The earlier bridge was constructed with the equal share of expenditure by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Unfortunately, it was washed away during floods. Though the state government sought share from the AP government, there was no positive response from the neighbouring state.
Taking into consideration the economic reasons, including heavy loss to the Road Transport Department’s Raichur division, the state reconstructed the bridge on its own.