Shivamogga: Shivamogga-Bhadravathi Urban Development Authority (SUDA) has planned to launch multiple initiatives to beautify key streets and circles, create a greener environment, improve cleanliness, ease traffic congestion and help curb crime in Shivamogga and Bhadravathi.SUDA chairman HS Sundaresh said required funds have already been earmarked, and the cities will be developed keeping population growth and traffic pressure in mind, drawing on models from major cities in developed nations.He told reporters that SUDA has already held extensive consultations with senior district-level officials from departments including the municipal corporation, agriculture, revenue, forest and industries, along with elected representatives, citizens and NGOs, to incorporate suggestions into the plans.A master plan has been prepared to develop select parks adjoining the city, and work has begun. SUDA has welcomed interest from industrialists and organisations in maintaining these parks once developed.Under the city beautification programme, SUDA will initially provide Rs 1 crore to the forest department. Prominent city locations will be identified, and agreements will be signed for planting and nurturing saplings for three years. The forest department will plant and maintain the saplings and later hand them over to the municipal corporation.SUDA is also prioritising rejuvenation of city lakes, with projects worth crores already taken up. Sundaresh said if the revenue department, municipal corporation and other departments clear encroachments, demarcate boundaries and hand over lakes, SUDA will install protective fencing and begin rejuvenation. Fifteen lakes have been identified and work is expected to start soon.To address overcrowding and pedestrian safety at major circles, SUDA is considering skywalks and escalators, and will seek technical guidance for implementation. For improved safety and crime prevention, the police department has been asked to identify locations for CCTV cameras at major circles and busy roads; Rs5 crore has been earmarked.SUDA will also support scientific plastic waste management by purchasing required machinery and handing it to the city corporation. On housing, SUDA plans a G+7 model residential complex with 1,200 houses, pending govt approval. At Gopishettikoppa, landowners of 32 out of 104 acres have agreed to develop land on a 50:50 basis, with work expected within months.
