Channagiri: Demand for Parapet Walls on Historic Shanti Sagara Bridge Amid Tourist Safety Concerns

Following heavy inflows and the filling of the historic Shanti Sagara (Sulekere) lake in Channagiri taluk of Davanagere district, thousands of tourists are visiting the scenic spot every day. While the massive waterbody and the adjoining Siddeshwara temple draw visitors from across the region, the iconic overpass bridge—celebrated as a testament to Sir M. Visvesvaraya's engineering skills—has become a site of growing concern due to severe safety deficiencies. Elevated more than 100 feet above the water level, several stretches of the long bridge lack proper parapet walls or protective side barriers. Local residents and visitors report that young tourists regularly risk their lives by walking along narrow pillar edges, taking selfies at dangerous points, and jumping into the canal waters below for swimming. The absence of warning signboards, CCTV surveillance cameras, and security personnel has heightened the risk of fatal falls or drownings. Expressing anger over official neglect despite past mishaps, residents of Channagiri taluk have urged the Irrigation Department and the Tourism Department to coordinate swiftly. They are demanding the permanent construction of sturdy parapet barriers along the bridge, deployment of security guards, and enforcement of safety guidelines to protect tourists visiting this prime local attraction.