SUDA is planning projects to improve beautification and enhance greenery in Shivamogga, Bhadravathi

SUDA Chairman HS Sundaresh at a press conference in Shivamogga on Tuesday. | Photo credit: SK Dinesh

Shivamogga-Bhadravati Urban Development Authority Chairman HS Sundaresh said that the authority has decided to launch projects for beautification, enhancing greenery, addressing traffic demands and ensuring safety in Shivamogga and Bhadravati towns.

Addressing a press conference in Shivamogga on Tuesday, Sundaresh said senior district officials from ministries like municipal corporation, agriculture, revenue and forest, besides elected representatives, industrialists, members of civil society organizations and the public have already been consulted and their suggestions have been incorporated.

The office has already prepared action plans for the development of selected parks on the outskirts of the city and started work. Several industrialists and organizations have expressed interest in preserving the developed parks, he said.

Skywalks

The authority is also focusing on rejuvenating the lakes in the city and has done works worth several crores of rupees. Mr. Sundaresh said 15 lakes have been identified for development. Once the revenue authority, city corporation and other agencies clear the encroachments, demarcate the boundaries and hand over the lakes, SUDA will start fencing and restoration work.

To solve the growing traffic jams, especially on busy roundabouts, the authority is considering the installation of skywalks and escalators after obtaining technical advice and approval from the government. SUDA has set aside ₹15 crore for this purpose.

The authority also plans to install statues of important personalities and national icons on roundabouts and build green areas around them. Alternative measures to control crowds at such places are also being explored. An amount of ₹8 crore has been earmarked for these initiatives.

To reduce accidents, untoward incidents and crime, the authority has asked the police department to identify suitable locations for installing CCTV cameras on major roads and city outskirts. An amount of ₹5 crore has been earmarked for the project, he said.

Mr. Sundaresh said SUDA is also proposing to build a G+7 residential complex comprising 1,200 houses at sites already identified in its jurisdiction. The proposal has been submitted to the government and once approved, construction will begin.

He added that landowners in Gopishettikoppa have expressed willingness to part with 104 acres for development. The owners of the 32 acres have already signed development agreements under a 50:50 sharing model and work on the layout is expected to begin in the coming months.

SUDA Commissioner BR Manjunath was present at the press conference.

Published – 23 Jun 2026 18:54 IST