The committee comprises specialists from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and Indian Railways, who will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) assessing the project’s technical feasibility, environmental impact, construction challenges, and cost requirements, officials said.
The decision follows a request made by Capt Chowta, who had urged the government to conduct a coordinated evaluation instead of separate studies by the road and railway departments.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, in an official communication to the MP, confirmed the committee’s mandate to assess the viability and advantages of constructing a tunnel system along the Shiradi Ghat stretch.
The Shiradi Ghat route serves as a vital link between coastal Karnataka and the state’s capital but remains prone to landslides, closures, and extended travel disruptions, especially during the monsoon.
Officials noted that the proposed tunnel would enhance travel reliability, reduce journey time, and improve commercial connectivity between the coast and the hinterland.
Capt Chowta added that the integrated approach will ensure better coordination between departments, minimise duplication of work, and enable faster decision-making for the project’s implementation.
