During a meeting with Chief Secretary Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Chowta emphasised the need for a coordinated Detailed Project Report to reduce environmental impact, streamline inter-departmental approvals, and avoid duplication of efforts.

Currently, the two agencies are independently preparing DPRs for National Highway Seventy-five and a proposed railway line linking Bengaluru to Mangaluru through ShiradiGhat, a key route in the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats.

Chowta highlighted that joint planning would not only speed up forest clearances but also support regional trade and freight movement by strengthening links to Mangaluru Port.

He noted that discussions had already been held with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Dr Rajneesh responded positively, assuring state government support for departmental coordination and facilitation of central clearances for the proposed initiative.

Source: The Hans India