Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Jul 19: Concerned officials finally filled the pothole at Baikampady, an hour after a fatal accident occurred. The rising number of potholes on national highways has become a pressing concern for motorists.
Following several instances of accidents caused by potholes, questions were raised about the lack of immediate action by NHAI to address the issue. Regrettably, this delayed response has led to the tragic death of 69-year-old Titus Ferrao.
Last year, Aathish lost his life due to a pothole at Bikarnakatte, and another incident injured a student at Nethravathi bridge. Unfortunately, even this year, a few motorists have already been injured in an accident at Nanthoor due to a pothole.
The NHAI officials and elected representatives are facing criticism after the recent death at Baikampady. The recurrence of potholes at the same spots during every monsoon raises concerns about the quality of NHAI's work.
Meanwhile, the members of DYFI too had submitted memorandum to the deputy commissioner demanding for filling of potholes on the BC Road-Surathkal stretch.
Promptly after the unfortunate incident, NHAI completed road patchwork at the accident spot. However, before the monsoon sets in, NHAI should proactively identify potholes and take measures to ensure smooth vehicular movement throughout the stretch.
Several spots, including Nanthoor, Bendorwell, Pumpwell, Panambur, and Baikampady, witness potholes every year, and the lack of a permanent solution has left netizens questioning the authorities' actions.
The Toll Gate Horata Samithi, led by Muneer Katipalla, demands stringent action against negligent NHAI officials. The group further demands immediate pothole repairs or threatens to protest in front of the NHAI office.