Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (GA) - pics - RK Durga Digitals

Udupi, May 26: In the last year there were plenty of complaints about the pathetic state of National Highway 17 and 48.  This year too there are complaints about the National Highway 17.  But it is not because the highway is not tarred but because it is slippery owing to rubber mastic tar used in tarring.

The stretch between Katpadi and Kaup is now being recognized as dangerous.  Most of the drivers are complaining that it is quite difficult apply brakes suddenly, since there are possibilities of accidents. 

This was seen clearly on Friday May 25 when it was drizzling in the morning.  Two accidents involving were reported and both the accidents were the results of slippery road.

While two express buses collided with each other leaving 15 passengers injured at Posar near Katpadi on Friday morning.  While Kohinoor bus was on its way to Mangalore from the city, SNDP bus was coming to the city from Mangalore when accident occurred.

Both the buses have considerably been damaged in the accident.  Locals said that the accident was the result of slippery road.  Since it was drizzling a bit, drivers could not control their vehicles.

In another accident two lorries collided with each other in front the mosque at Muloor near Padubidri.  Drivers of both the lorries escaped with minor injuries.

In another similar incident a tanker going towards Mangalore rammed into a Maruti Omni carrying pilgrims to Shri Krishna Temple.  As a result Priya, Raghavendra and Dhananjay of Mysore who were in the car have been injured and are admitted to private hospital here.  Tanker driver however, fled the place soon after the accident.