Bhagamandala: The proposal of the central government to upgrade the present highway from Panthur in Kerala to Bhagamandala in Kodagu to National Highway (NH) has brought in not so much cheer in the Triveni Sangama town of Bhagamandala.

The reasons attributed to the mixed reaction include the prevailing drought like situation in the region known for highest rainfall and the destruction of 6.5 Km stretch of forest along the NH route during upgradation.

However, Kodagu-Mysuru MP Pratap Simha welcomed the decision of the central government to develop the small stretch of road which falls under his constituency into National Highway. In a press release, he has thanked Union Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari for the proposal.

Though none oppose the development of roads as it spurs the region’s economy, nature lovers from Kodagu hope “sustainable development” prevails!