Koppal Chamber Intensifies Push for Gangavathi National Highway Upgrade
In a strongly worded appeal, the District Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Koppal has voiced profound dissatisfaction over the persistent neglect of Gangavathi in National Highway development. Chamber president Ashokaswamy Herur has formally called upon both the Union and State governments to implement immediate corrective measures to address this critical infrastructure gap.
Economic Hub Lacks Vital Connectivity
Herur emphasized that Gangavathi, despite being one of the largest cities in Koppal district and a pivotal commercial center, remains without direct National Highway links. This deficiency, he argued, severely hampers the region's economic potential and logistical efficiency.
Safety Concerns on State Highway-23
The Chamber president highlighted alarming safety issues on State Highway-23, the route connecting Sindhanur and Gangavathi. Heavy vehicle traffic on this two-lane stretch has resulted in frequent accidents, underscoring the urgent need for an upgrade to a four-lane road. Herur has recommended that this route be elevated to National Highway status to ensure safer and more efficient transport.
Industrial Reliance on Road Transport
Detailing the economic landscape, Herur noted that key industries in the region—including mining units, cement factories, rice mills, and paddy-based businesses—depend heavily on road transport for their operations. Enhanced highway connectivity, he asserted, would dramatically improve logistics, reduce costs, and stimulate industrial growth, benefiting the local economy.
Missed Opportunities in Highway Projects
Herur pointed out specific instances where Gangavathi has been bypassed in national infrastructure plans. The Karwar–Ballari National Highway was halted at Hosalli in Koppal taluk, while the proposed Jewargi-Ballari National Highway is set to pass through Sindhanur, again excluding Gangavathi. Similarly, the Kalmal-Ginigera highway extension stops at Sindhanur, leaving Gangavathi isolated from direct National Highway connections to Koppal, Kushtagi, Sindhanur, and Ballari.
Additional Hurdles on Toll Roads
Raising another critical issue, Herur alleged that numerous speed breakers have been installed on the Mudgal-Gangavathi toll road under State Highway-29. These obstacles, he claimed, create significant hurdles for motorists, forcing many vehicles to divert through longer alternative routes. This diversion causes considerable inconvenience to residents of Kanakagiri and Tavaragera, further exacerbating transport inefficiencies.
Call for Coordinated Government Action
The Chamber has issued a formal appeal for coordinated action from both Union and State authorities to ensure the smooth movement of goods and passenger vehicles. Herur reiterated that Gangavathi's economic significance warrants immediate attention, with National Highway connectivity being essential to unlock its full potential and support regional development.
In summary, the Koppal Chamber's demands underscore a pressing need for infrastructure investment in Gangavathi, linking improved road networks to broader economic prosperity and safety enhancements for the community.
