Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jan 6: Deputy Commissioner Dr K Vidya Kumari has directed engineers to initiate action for blacklisting contractors responsible for the prolonged delay in completing the Indrali Railway Overbridge project. This directive was issued during a review meeting held at the DC Office in Manipal.

The construction of the overbridge, which began in 2018 as part of the road widening initiative between Udupi and Manipal, remains incomplete even after five years. The delay has caused significant inconvenience to commuters, sparking frequent public complaints. Dr Vidya Kumari attributed the delay to the contractor’s negligence and instructed engineers to issue notices for blacklisting the primary and subcontractors involved in the project.

In an earlier progress review meeting, contractors and engineers from the National Highway division were directed to deploy workers for day and night shifts to expedite the work. However, the lack of sufficient manpower has continued to hinder progress. The Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of prioritizing public interest and instructed the immediate deployment of additional laborers to speed up the construction process.

She specifically directed the assignment of more workers for welding tasks and urged the completion of supplementary work required for the installation of girders on the overbridge. Additionally, Dr Vidya Kumari called for a detailed plan to complete the remaining work and ensure all necessary resources and documentation are in place.

District Superintendent of Police Dr Arun K raised concerns over the safety risks arising from the delay, highlighting an increase in road accidents. He warned that negligence in completing the work would result in legal action against the contractors and engineers involved.

Senior Engineer of Konkan Railway Gopal Krishna, assistant executive engineers from the Sringeri-Chikkamagaluru National Highway Division, and other officials were present at the meeting.