Mangaluru: The state government is contemplating on checking possibilities of repairing the bridge that collapsed at Mullarapatna in Bantwal taluk using the expertise of the Indian Army.Informing this, minister for urban development and housing U T Khader said, “The Indian Army has been constructing bridges and they have technology to rebuild damaged bridges. Hence, we will check possibilities of repairing Mullarapatna bridge through the Indian Army. However, a decision will be taken after obtaining a report from the PWD.”If the bridge is repaired by rebuilding the collapsed spans, light motor vehicles, two-wheelers and pedestrians may use it. Later, a new bridge will be built at the place. As per the estimate submitted by the PWD officials, a permanent bridge can be built at Mullarapatna at a cost of Rs 18 crore. Meanwhile, it may require approximately Rs 7.5 crore to repair it. Khader said the proposal to build a new bridge is under consideration.At a meeting of MLAs from Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts on Monday, Khader directed officials of the PWD to commence road repair works in both districts from July 23.“People should inform officials about damaged roads in their respective areas. They may send pictures and information on WhatsApp or call officials about bad roads. Bring the issue to the notice of people’s representatives of your respective area if your requests are not heard by the officials,” the minister said after holding a meeting with PWD officials from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.Khader said it is not possible to asphalt the roads immediately as the region has been receiving rains. Hence, the department will take necessary steps to make damaged roads motorable by filling potholes. He directed officials to complete all the road development works that were already commenced and warned that “there should be no compromise in quality of work”.In the meantime, the MLAs’ meet resolved to urge the government for a sanction of Rs 50 crore each to all constituencies in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts exclusively for road development.Master plan for DKKhader said the MLAs discussed about preparing a master plan for the overall development of Dakshina Kannada district. “We will work as a team for the development of the district. Will discuss issues related to the development of the district with the state and central governments as a team. Meanwhile, a separate policy will be framed for Mangaluru Urban Development Authority for the development of the city,” he added.

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