Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation Plans Statue Elevation for Flyover Project
In a significant move to balance infrastructure development with heritage preservation, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has decided to elevate the Kittur Channamma statue at KC Circle. This decision comes as part of the ongoing construction of a flyover at the junction, where a circular section of the structure will surround the statue.
Design and Rationale Behind the Elevation
The flyover's circular portion is planned at a height of 14 metres above ground level. Since the statue is centrally located at this important junction, officials have concluded that it must be raised to match the new structural setting. This measure aims to ensure the statue remains visually prominent and retains its symbolic importance after the flyover's completion.
HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali emphasized that the move is intended to preserve the identity and historical significance of KC Circle, which holds strong public and cultural value. If the statue remained at its current level while the flyover rose around it, the landmark could lose visibility, undermining its emotional and historical attachment for the community.
Budget and Implementation Details
For the elevation work, HDMC has earmarked Rs 5 crore. This allocated amount is expected to cover planning, structural modifications, and execution to safely lift the statue to the proposed height. The project will involve technical assessments and engineering support to ensure stability and aesthetic harmony with the flyover design.
Ghali added that a tender will be floated for a consultant soon, and designs will be invited. Once finalized, work on designing at KC Circle will begin, including elements like greenery and lighting, alongside the statue elevation.
Balancing Infrastructure and Heritage
The plan reflects an effort to balance infrastructure expansion with heritage sensitivity. While the flyover aims to improve traffic movement and reduce congestion at the busy junction, elevating the statue shows the civic body's mindfulness of cultural preservation. With the budget set aside, the statue elevation is poised to become an integral part of the overall flyover development at KC Circle, highlighting a thoughtful approach to urban growth in Hubballi.
