Frustrated villagers from Koothi in Madikeri took to the streets on Thursday, staging a strong protest against what they allege is shockingly poor quality work on a crucial state highway project. The demonstration targeted the ongoing construction of the Magadi-Jalsur State Highway (SH-85), a vital link stretching from Alekatte near Somwarpet to Inakanahalli near Koothi.
Residents Confront PWD Officials Over Substandard Work
During the protest, the local residents did not hold back, publicly questioning officials from the public works department (PWD) about the inferior standards of the road construction. The villagers claim that the 10-kilometre road project, which is being executed under the State Highway Development Project at an estimated cost of Rs 20 crore, is blatantly substandard. Despite the significant public money invested, the road remains incomplete even a full year after the project was launched, causing immense daily hardship.
A Vital Connector Left in Limbo
This highway section is a critical infrastructure piece, connecting Hassan district via Koodu Road, Kalkandur, Hosabeedu, and Koothi. Its delayed and allegedly shoddy completion severely impacts connectivity and local economy. Villager KD Girish was vocal in his criticism, stating, "The quality of the work is extremely poor." Echoing this sentiment, another resident, Divakar, highlighted the administration's apathy, revealing that repeated complaints to the department had failed to elicit any corrective action or response.
Mounting Anger and Demand for Accountability
The protest underscores a growing anger among citizens over the failure of authorities to ensure quality in public infrastructure projects. The villagers' direct confrontation with PWD officials signals a breakdown in trust and a demand for immediate accountability. They are insisting on a thorough inspection and complete rectification of the work to meet acceptable standards, ensuring the Rs 20 crore investment truly benefits the community it was meant to serve.
