23 January,2009 09:18 AM IST | | Chetan R
The state government refuses to drop the construction of the bridge across the Tungabhadra River, to provide a link from Anegundi to tourist destination Hampi, despite strong opposition that it would harm the heritage value of the site.
The work on the bridge, which was stalled for some time following opposition from tourists andu00a0u00a0 Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation)u00a0 members, resumed recently.
"The construction of the bridge has come under a lot criticism and tourists just don't want it. They are happy with the coracles (boats)," said Hampi Maheshwar, a regular visitor to Hampi.u00a0u00a0u00a0
In danger
Unesco had asked the government to stop construction of the bridge on the grounds that it would threaten the visual and structural integrity of the monuments. Hampi has been included in the list of World Heritage in Danger sites.
Despite knowing that the bridge would be a serious threat to historical places like Anegundi and Virapapura Gada, the officials continued with the project. Tourists will not be able to view monuments like Kumararama Palace if they have to take the bridge, according to some historians.
"The construction of the bridge will unnecessarily lead to commercialisation of the place and spurt in the number of vehicles. It will also pave the way for shops, restaurants, illegal constructions that may harm the historical value of the site," said Maheshwar.
No coordination
Use of outdated cables for the construction of the bridge and lack of coordination between the state government and Unesco were the reasons behind the collapse of the bridge. Proper coordination could have averted it, sources said.
