Gadkari To Inaugurate Rs 450 Crore Sigandur Bridge In Karnataka's Shivamogga On 14 July: Report

A major infrastructure project in Shivamogga is set to be unveiled, with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari scheduled to inaugurate the newly built Sigandur bridge across the Sharavathi backwaters in Sagar Taluk on 14 July, the Hindu reported.

Shivamogga MP BY Raghavendra confirmed the inauguration date at a press conference on Saturday (5 July).

The cable-stayed bridge, officially named the Holebagilu–Kalasavalli bridge, has been constructed at a cost of Rs 450 crore. 

It aims to improve connectivity for residents of Barangi and Karuru hoblis in Sagar taluk, particularly those living on islands isolated due to the backwaters, a network of interconnected brackish lagoons, lakes, and canals formed by the action of waves and shore currents, of the Linganmakki Dam.

For years, locals had relied on ferry services to reach the mainland, following the submergence of several villages during the construction of the dam. 

The bridge is expected to offer much-needed relief by providing year-round road access and enhancing regional mobility.

Raghavendra also urged the State Government to consider renaming the bridge in honour of Sigandur Chowdeshwari, the presiding deity of the Sigandur temple, a prominent pilgrimage site in the region. 

He appealed to the state authorities to submit a formal proposal to the Centre requesting the name change.

The venue for the inauguration ceremony has not been decided yet.

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