Mangaluru: Karnataka is planning to construct two to three new bridges, including one at Poonadka in Vitla, to improve connectivity with Kerala, Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi said.

After inspecting the proposed Poonadka site via Kamajalu in Manila village of Vitla on Sunday, the minister said the department would prioritise interstate bridges, including footbridges. He noted that demands for bridges in Sullia and other parts of Dakshina Kannada have been pending for a long time.

The Poonadka bridge has been a demand for at least 50 years, he said, adding that a final decision will be taken after evaluating technical and logistical aspects. Karnataka will bear the project cost.

“Most proposals submitted by the Puttur MLA have been approved. Several bridges are under construction, and repair works are in progress. Many projects under the State Highway Development Programme are also underway. Tenders will be invited in April to prevent damage to infrastructure during the monsoon,” he said.

The minister added that the PWD has sanctioned ₹80 crore for bridge construction in constituencies represented by BJP MLAs in the district, while accusing them of making baseless allegations about a shortage of funds. “How will they get votes if they don’t make such allegations? Even while raising these claims, BJP MLAs have been conducting foundation ceremonies for development projects in their constituencies,” he said.

Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai acknowledged that the minister had been “practical” and had implemented previously promised projects. He added that the constituency has received ₹250 crore through the department.