Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 18: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) and officials involved are facing strong public criticism for the ongoing excavation of the concrete road opposite the KSRTC bus stand. This marks the third time in the last six months that the road has been dug up for drainage and pipeline works, drawing ire from the community.

The repeated cutting of the concrete road at the same spot has inconvenienced the public, causing traffic congestion and frustration among residents. Three months ago, a drainage leak prompted a 2.5-month repair project by the MCC, creating disruptions for both pedestrians and motorists. The repair work also led to foul smells, affecting local businesses along the stretch.

Despite the repair efforts, the road was not adequately restored, with patchwork evident at the excavation site. Now, starting from January 15, the same spot is undergoing excavation once again.

Netizens are questioning the planning of engineers and elected representatives, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of pre-planning and raising concerns about the repeated disruptions to the same area. Elected representatives and opposition figures have remained silent on the matter.

The KSRTC bus stand, a crucial location for public transportation, witnesses heavy traffic, and the ongoing excavation is expected to cause inconvenience for at least another month. The project, extending from the KSRTC to the MESCOM office, raises questions about the durability of the concrete road, which has undergone multiple excavations and patchwork. Concerns are also voiced regarding the quality of the road in the near future.

Activist G K Bhat criticized the lack of response from mayor Sudheer Shetty who is the ward corporator as well, and highlighted the failure of pre-planning by the engineer, and said that such repeated disruptions waste taxpayers' money.