Bantwal : The proposed widening of National Highway 75 as envisaged by the National Highways Authority of India if executed fully is feared to take a toll on villages like Melkar, Kalladka and Mani completely.

The NHAI which has plans to convert the Mangalore-Bangalore stretch into a four lane between Hassan  and  BC Road, has entrusted the sketch preparing works for a private firm. As per the sketch hundreds of houses, hundreds of acres of agricultural land, commercial hubs are likely to be acquired for the purpose.

 The NHAI, has completed first phase of survey work and has initiated the land acquisition process between Hassan and Sakleshpur.

As per the plan, a total of 45 metres of land, at the rate of 22.5 metres on each side, will be acquired.The authority has already served notices on the owners of private lands, residential houses, and buildings, on the basis of the survey. It has also called for objections and held sessions to sort out them. As per the survey in Bantwal taluk, Melkar will be much affected as is the case of Kelaginapete. In Maani schools and several shops too will have to go.

Through a notification and notices issued on March 27 this year, NHAI had asked the owners of buildings to file objections if any within 21 days. Those who objected to the plan were asked to come to Hassan, where their petitions were received and endorsements were issued that these petitions are under consideration.

Tahsildar (land acquisition) of NHAI, Hassan, has confirmed that highway will be widened between Hassan and B C Road, and that survey has been completed. He added that land acquisition process is on between Hassan and Sakleshpur.

But the very news has been very alarming for villagers who will not only lose their houses but also their livelihoods.