6 days ago
Kanive suspension bridge in shambles
Madikeri: The suspension bridge near Sri Ramalingeswara Temple in Kanive, near Kudige, under Hebbale gram panchayat's jurisdiction, has become hazardous. Constructed 18 years ago as part of the Malnad Development Project, this bridge connects Kodagu to Mysuru districts.
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Heavy rain in 2018-19 caused the Cauvery River to overflow, damaging the bridge's iron girders and concrete steps. Currently, the bridge has deteriorated to a dangerous state due to inadequate maintenance.
The bridge, which suffered damage from rising Cauvery water levels in 2019, was repaired and step installations were added in 2020. However, severe weather conditions in 2021 caused the iron railings to disintegrate.
For four years, thousands of people, including villagers from over 20 Mysuru district villages, labourers, and farmers, have been using this bridge daily to reach Kushalnagar and Kudumangaluru industrial areas.
Despite broken railings on one side, people continue to use this suspension bridge, albeit anxiously.
The deteriorating bridge has remained unrepaired for four years. Two years ago, Madikeri constituency MLA Manthar Gowda inspected the damaged bridge during Sri Ramalingeshwara Brahma Rathotsava and directed authorities concerned to take action.
Kushalnagar tahsildar Kiran Gouraiah said, "I inspected the Kanive suspension bridge today. Due to the heavy rain, a lock has been installed on the gate leading to the stream near the Rameshwara Temple to prevent tourists from using the bridge."
