Sigandur Bridge Inauguration: Naming Controversy Heats Up Over Karnataka’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge

In Shivamogga, Karnataka, Kalasavalli-Ambargondlu, or the Sigandur bridge project is set to be inaugurated. The state's longest and India's second-largest cable-stayed bridge over the Sharavathi backwaters will be opened by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. This ambitious project, costing Rs 473 crore and spanning 2.44 kilometres, has been eagerly awaited by locals and tourists alike.

The bridge promises to ease travel for devotees of Chaudeshwari and other visitors who previously relied on ferries. Now, they can cross with ease. The bridge includes a 740-metre cable section, enhancing connectivity within the state. A grand ceremony is planned for the inauguration, with various leaders in attendance.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah had urged Nitin Gadkari to postpone the Kalasavalli-Ambargondlu Bridge inauguration programme scheduled for Monday at Sagar taluk, Shivamogga district. Explaining that he was busy with pre-scheduled programmes at Indi taluk in Vijayapura district, Siddaramaiah felt that it was "more appropriate" for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to consult the state government before scheduling program.

Speaking to ANI, regarding the controversy about his absence from the inauguration of the Kalasavalli-Ambargondlu Bridge, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said, "I had called Nitin Gadkari and asked him to postpone the program. He said he would postpone it. But now, bowing to the pressure from local BJP leaders, they are going ahead with the event. I have not received any invitation. We always extend cooperation to railway projects - they invite us for those. But here, protocol has been violated. As a mark of protest, none of us is participating in the program. Congress MLAs from the region, the District Minister, and the Minister for Public Works are all staying away. They are deliberately creating a rift between the central and state governments..."

On the inauguration of the Kalasavalli-Ambargondlu Bridge, Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala said, "Insulting the people of Karnataka and Kanadigas has become a habit of the BJP. This is not just an insult to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, but to the seven crore people of Karnataka. BJP thinks of Karnataka as just a money-making machine. They take one rupee in the form of GST and give us back only 13 paise. They do not give us Rs 5300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project. They don't clear the Krishna Water Tribunal..."

Bridge Naming Dispute

A debate has arisen regarding the naming of this new bridge. While some advocate naming it after former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa due to his persistent efforts in realising this project, others have different suggestions. The issue has reached the courts for resolution.

Travelling to Sigandur previously required a 100-kilometre road journey or a ferry ride. With the new bridge over the Sharavathi River, travel becomes significantly more convenient. This development is largely credited to BJP leader B.S. Yediyurappa's continuous efforts.

Political Influence

The BJP has proposed naming the bridge 'Siganduru Chaudeshwari' in honour of the deity worshipped in the region. However, Harinath Rao has filed a petition advocating for Yediyurappa's name instead, citing his pivotal role in bringing this project to fruition.

The final decision on the bridge's name rests with the court's verdict. Until then, discussions continue among stakeholders and political figures about who should receive this honour.

Vijayendra Yediyurappa expressed his support for naming the bridge after his father via social media: "A hearty welcome to Shri @nitin_gadkari Ji, Hon'ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, who is visiting Karnataka ahead of the inauguration of the Sigandur Bridge — India's second-largest cable-stayed bridge and a long-cherished dream of Shri @BSYBJP."

The public eagerly awaits both the opening of this vital infrastructure and the resolution of its naming controversy. The court's decision will ultimately determine whose name will grace this landmark structure.