Saturday, September 24 2005 17:02 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Bangalore: The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is considering proposals sent by Karnataka for taking up development of roads near Bangalore city for easing congestion and traffic, Union Minister of State for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Muniyappa said today (Sept 24, 2005).

Addressing a press conference after reviewing the implementation of works being taken up by NHAI and also discussing issues related to coordination between the Centre and State, he said work on 40 kms four-lane link from Suratkal to Bantwal under port connectivity programme at a cost of Rs 168 crore would start soon.

Muniyappa said work on the delayed Bangalore-Mysore Express way entrusted to Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise (NICE) would also commence soon.

Karnataka Minister for Cooperation R V Desphande said the state has requested the NHAI to expedite work on Devanahalli road as the work on International Airport was progressing ahead of schedule.

Deputy Commissioners have been appointed as arbitrators to settle land disputes and compensation claims, he said, adding, that hereafter all request by farmers for change of land use situated along the national highway shall be referred to NHAI.

State Chief Secretary B K Das, senior officials of the PWD department and NHAI attended the meeting.