Pics: Chandrashekar

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Oct 30: Residents of Brahmagiri in Udupi have raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of the road passing through Bannanje. The stretch, filled with potholes for several months, has turned into a daily nightmare for commuters, pedestrians, and schoolchildren.

Despite repeated complaints and appeals submitted to the city municipality and concerned authorities, no action has been taken to repair the road. From the Bannanje KSRTC bus stand up to about one kilometre, potholes dominate the stretch, making travel extremely difficult. Locals say reaching destinations on time has become nearly impossible, while ambulance, auto, and bus drivers have expressed strong resentment over the situation.

Shopkeepers along the roadside also face hardships as the absence of a proper drainage system causes rainwater to flow into their shop entrances. They allege that even after multiple complaints, no permanent measures have been taken. “Whenever politicians visit, they cover the potholes with mud, but soon after vehicle movement, the road returns to its damaged state,” said a local trader.

Residents further claimed that minor accidents have occurred in the past few weeks due to the poor road condition. Parents of students who commute to school or college in their own vehicles are anxious about their safety. The potholes are deep, and due to waterlogging, it becomes difficult to judge their depth—especially for two-wheeler riders who face severe hardship travelling on this stretch.

According to locals, leaders had promised to resume roadwork once the rains subsided, but despite clear weather for weeks, no work has started. Despite multiple complaints and appeals, nothing has changed.

People fear that if the road remains in its current condition, the frequent movement of vehicles and unpredictable rain will worsen the situation, leading to further waterlogging and making the road slippery with loose gravel.

Residents have demanded that authorities begin the repair work without delay and provide a permanent solution instead of temporary fixes. “We have been suffering for too long; it is time the government listens to our voices,” said one commuter.