Udupi: MLA Yashpal Suvarna has directed officials to begin the Malpe-Udupi Highway work on Wednesday. A meeting was held on Monday in the presence of MP Kota Shrinivas Poojary, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna and Kaup MLA Suresh Shetty Gurme with officials regarding the National Highway 169A works, which cover areas from Malpe to Udupi, including Hiriyadka, Parkala and Perdur.
The project faced delays due to pending land acquisition, but compensation notices have now been issued to the landowners. Out of 214 land acquisition files, 19 involve govt land and 195 involve private owners. Notices have been issued to 51 private landowners, with 48 submitting their documents for compensation. Efforts are underway to notify the remaining 144 landowners, and MLA Suvarna directed that the work on the Malpe to Udupi section resume on Wednesday.
Regarding the Parkala highway section, a court stay was in place, but a favourable decision for the govt was obtained. MP Poojary urged immediate compensation payment to landowners so that the work could begin.
In Perdur, there is a 600m stretch near the temple where a court stay is in effect. Kaup MLA Gurme advised that work should proceed in other areas, respecting devotees' request to preserve the original structure of the temple and Kalyani (pond).
Kundapura AC Mahesh Chandra, officials Manjunath Gowda, Naveen Raj and Manjunath Nayak, city council member Sundar Kalmadi, and revenue department officials were present.