Kumta: The famous stretch connecting Coastal Karnataka with Malenadu region in Uttar Kannada district, Kumta-Sirsi highway is set to get closed for next 18 months from 12th October for the road widening upgradation works under Sagarmala project.

The National Highway Authority has written to the district authorities seeking permission to block the road for 18 months. The road upgradation works will be undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 370 crores.

Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Dr K Harishakumar has issued an order seeking closure of road by providing alternate roadway till the work is completed.

Alternate routes:
For those travelling to Karwar and Ankola from Sirsi, can travel via Yellapur NH-63. From Honnavar, the travellers can reach Sirsi through Siddapur via Mavinagundi. To reach Kumta from Sirsi, the travellers are advised to take Siddapur route via Badaal.