Karnataka is set to strengthen its cross-border connectivity with Kerala through a series of new bridge projects, signalling a renewed focus on regional infrastructure integration.
According to PWD minister Satish Jarkiholi, the state is planning to construct two to three bridges, including a long-pending proposal at Poonadka. The site, accessed via Manila village, was recently inspected, with officials now evaluating technical and logistical feasibility before final approval.
The proposed Poonadka bridge addresses a demand that has persisted for over five decades, particularly from regions like Sullia and the surrounding areas. The state government is expected to fully fund the project, alongside other interstate links, including smaller pedestrian bridges aimed at improving last-mile access.
Parallelly, multiple works under the State Highway Development Programme are progressing, with tenders scheduled in April to mitigate monsoon-related disruptions. The PWD has also sanctioned ₹80 crore for bridge construction in select constituencies.
Local MLA Ashok Kumar Rai acknowledged the pace of implementation, noting that the constituency has received significant funding support, reflecting a shift from proposal to execution on the ground
