Highway to Growth: Mysuru-Kushalnagar Takes Off

The 92-km Mysuru–Kushalnagar four-lane highway project is making steady headway, with major construction underway on key stretches. Currently, work is progressing on a 19-km segment between Agrahara in Srirangapatna and Yalachanahalli in Mysuru taluk, as well as on another section from Belthur in Hunsur taluk to Harave Mallarajapattana in Periyapatna taluk.

The project received a boost with the Central government’s recent approval of Package 3, expected to significantly enhance connectivity along the Mysuru–Madikeri corridor. According to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the new alignment will begin in Mysuru and end near Srirangapatna, connecting with the Bengaluru–Mysuru National Highway (NH-275). The highway is designed to reduce travel time between Bengaluru and Madikeri, providing a faster, more efficient alternative to the current route. It primarily passes through agricultural and dry lands to minimize environmental and social impact.

Originally proposed in 2018 by then MP Prathap Simha and approved by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the project was initially intended to extend to Madikeri. However, due to environmental concerns around Kushalnagar, the alignment was revised to its current route. The initiative gained traction following the ground-breaking ceremony held on March 12, 2023, during the inauguration of the Bengaluru–Mysuru Highway at Gejjalagere.

Once completed, the Mysuru–Kushalnagar highway is expected to serve as a vital infrastructure link, boosting regional connectivity, promoting tourism, and driving economic growth in Kodagu and surrounding districts.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.