Nayana J C

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Oct 28: Residents of the Kettikal–Tarigudde–Padu road stretch under the Neermarga gram panchayat limits in Mangaluru taluk continue to face serious safety concerns due to the narrow and poorly maintained road, which lacks adequate space for pedestrians. Despite repeated appeals to the authorities and directions for inspection and road widening, residents say their concerns remain unresolved.

The narrow stretch witnesses the daily movement of more than 10 school buses, along with KSRTC buses and other vehicles. With no proper footpath, schoolchildren and residents are forced to walk along the road, exposing themselves to the risk of accidents. The situation becomes particularly dangerous when two vehicles approach from opposite directions, as there is hardly any space for them to pass safely.

The road is flanked by compound walls of residential houses on one side and overgrown bushes on the other, leaving little room for pedestrians. Residents say the absence of a designated walking space has turned everyday travel into a frightening experience.

Local resident Sujith Kumar said that students and members of the public are compelled to walk on the same narrow road used by buses and other vehicles. He expressed concern over the possibility of a serious accident if immediate measures are not taken to improve road safety.

The issue was brought to the attention of district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao during the Janata Darshan programme in 2023. According to residents, the minister responded by directing officials to inspect the road and take appropriate steps towards widening it. The Mangaluru taluk panchayat had also reportedly instructed the Neermarga gram panchayat to submit a report on the matter.

However, residents allege that no substantial action has followed and that the directions have remained on paper. They said representations have been submitted to the gram panchayat, the local MLA and the deputy commissioner of Dakshina Kannada since 2022, but the problem continues.

Residents pointed out that the movement of school buses and public transport vehicles makes the stretch especially hazardous for children and pedestrians. They questioned who would be held responsible if an accident occurred and urged the authorities to intervene before a tragedy takes place.

The growing concern over the Kettikal–Tarigudde–Padu road highlights the urgent need for safer pedestrian infrastructure and improved road access. Residents have called upon the Public Works Department (PWD), local authorities and other concerned officials to take the matter seriously, complete the necessary technical procedures and initiate road-widening work at the earliest.

For the people living in the area, the demand is not merely for better road infrastructure but for a safe route that students, commuters and residents can use without fear every day.