Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi

Udupi, May 8: In a significant step toward easing traffic congestion in the temple town, work on the much-anticipated underpass and flyover at Ambalpady Junction on National Highway 66 is progressing at a brisk pace. On Wednesday, major developments unfolded as girders were successfully installed for the flyover portion of the ambitious project.

With a total allocation of Rs 23.53 crore, the project has been entrusted to Karla Constructions and officially commenced on December 16 last year. The construction involves the installation of 20 massive girders, lifted and positioned on pre-erected pillars using four high-capacity cranes.

Following the girder installation, construction of the concrete slab will begin shortly. According to company sources, efforts are underway to open the lower deck of the flyover for vehicular movement from Brahmagiri to Ambalpady by the end of this month, aiming to provide early relief to daily commuters.

At present, due to ongoing work, vehicles heading from Brahmagiri to Ambalpady are being diverted through the Kinni Mulki welcome arch, while those traveling from Ambalpady to Udupi are being rerouted via the Karavali bypass.

Set to be completed by May 2026, the entire flyover will stretch 1.2 kilometers in length and 22 meters in width, comprising six lanes. The underpass section, connecting Brahmagiri and Kadegar, will include a central pillar and feature a total width of 30 meters, with 15-meter-wide roads on either side.

Locals have welcomed the progress, expressing hope that the new infrastructure will ease the persistent traffic snarls at the busy junction, which has long been a bottleneck during peak hours.