Hubli
A 1.2km stretch of the Devar Gudihal Road in the city has left local residents and commuters fuming at the Public Works Department (PWD) over its alleged negligence in getting the much-needed repair work started on the thoroughfare.
The road that connects UKT Hill and Devar Gudihal is such a dustbowl right now that it has raised serious health concerns, primarily over respiratory ailments among those inhabiting the hundreds of houses, marriage halls and commercial establishments, including petrol pumps, on either side.The proposal to build a concrete road at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore was drawn up by PWD several months ago, but work on the project is yet to see light of day.
Abdul Kareem, an auto driver, said it is very difficult to travel on this road without a face mask. Many are already suffering from dust allergies.
Nagaraj Gouri, a social activist, said Mangalamma Gouri, the Corporator from Ward No. 34, had raised the issue with Santosh Lad, the District in-charge Minister.
Discussions have already been held with PWD officials for undertaking repair and restoration work. An estimate to have a cement road built at a cost of Rs 4.35 core has also been drawn up, which is currently waiting for the PWD’s approval, Gouri added.
According to Gouri, multiple infrastructure development projects have been undertaken on this stretch by the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC), which has been requested to release ward funds for asphalting of the road.
Ishwar Ullagaddi, the HDMC commissioner, said instructions have been sent out to ensure speedy implementation of the repair work and to sprinkle water to ensure less pollution, though, given the current situation, that’s just a small mercy for those affected.
