Shimoga: The Kalasavalli–Ambaragodlu (Sigandur) bridge will be inaugurated on July 14, said MP B.Y. Raghavendra on Saturday.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi will attend the inauguration ceremony, he confirmed while addressing reporters.

Raghavendra urged the state government to recommend naming the bridge after Sigandur Chowdeshwari.

He noted that after the construction of the Linganamakki dam, the region had faced connectivity issues. The construction of the bridge is the result of the efforts of many leaders, including former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and various activists.

Constructed at a cost of Rs 470 crore, the bridge is the second longest cable-stayed bridge in the country. It spans approximately 2.14 km in length and 16 metres in width.

Work on the bridge began in December 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising backwater levels in the initial phase, the project progressed slowly. However, construction later picked up speed.

The Sigandur bridge is expected to significantly improve transportation for people in the Sharavathi backwater region and provide a major boost to tourism in Shivamogga.