The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has initiated steps to explore the possibility of constructing a tunnel at the Agumbe Ghat section of National Highway 169A, which links the Udupi and Shivamogga districts. The proposal was announced by Shivamogga Lok Sabha member B Y Raghavendra as part of plans to widen the existing highway to improve the smooth movement of traffic. The move responds to long standing concerns about connectivity across the ghat.\n\nTo assess the option, the ministry has invited tenders for preparing a feasibility study and a detailed project report along with survey and land planning work to upgrade the stretch from 30.75 km to 51.60 km into a two-lane road with pedestrian pathways on both sides. The tender includes provisions for engaging tunnel design experts and senior geo-technical engineers and allocates a dedicated budget for detailed geo-technical investigations to evaluate a tunnel alternative along this stretch.\n\nThe detailed project report is to be prepared within six months and the exercise has been allocated Rs 23.3 million (mn) for the task. Authorities have described the Agumbe Ghat road as an environmentally sensitive area that is prone to accidents, and the assessment will examine technical feasibility alongside safety and environmental considerations. Detailed geo-technical work will aim to identify stabilisation measures and minimise ecological disturbance.\n\nOfficials believe that developing this section, potentially through a tunnel, would open new avenues for progress in the Malnad and coastal districts and yield substantial advantages for local residents and farmers. Improved connectivity is expected to benefit neighbouring areas, tourism and emergency services while the study will recommend land planning and mitigation measures to balance development with conservation. Further approvals will depend on study outcomes and statutory clearances.
