Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 2: A protest was held in Thokottu on Friday, August 2, demanding the construction of a pedestrian overpass or underpass at the Olapete railway crossing, which has a history of over a hundred years. Ullal municipal council member, Dinkar Ullal, emphasized the need for a united effort to bring this issue to the attention of the MPs and resolve it.
Speaking at the protest organized by the Ullal Students' Union under the Thokottu flyover on Friday evening, Dinkar Ullal mentioned that the central government’s policy has been delaying educational loans for students. He stressed the importance of constructing an overpass at the Thokottu Olapete railway tracks for public safety.
Dinkar Ullal highlighted his 40-year-long struggle to address the railway crossing issue at Thokottu. He explained that crossing railway tracks is illegal and dangerous, especially now that there are two tracks. Previously, discussions were held with then-central railway minister Oscar Fernandes regarding the construction of an underpass, but it was not successful due to the negligence of the Ullal municipality. With V Somanna now serving as the railway minister, Ullal urged everyone to bring this issue to the attention of Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta and expedite the construction of a pedestrian bridge or underpass.
The railway crossing is essential for access to schools, colleges, mosques, temples, and churches in Olapete. Railway authorities have installed iron fences to prevent public crossing, but adults and differently-abled individuals still attempt to cross, resulting in injuries. Ullal warned that if a pedestrian overpass is not constructed soon, students will escalate their protest.
Key figures and protest details
Student leader Reeshal D’Souza emphasized the urgency of constructing the overpass to prevent further injuries and potential fatalities.
Ullal Students’ Union president, Safwan Kerebail led the protest, with significant community support. Fr Cyprian Pinto, the chief priest of St Sebastian's Church, Alwyn D’Souza, president of Mangalore Catholic Sabha, Ullal municipal council members Basil D’Souza and Veena Shanti D’Souza, and notable figures such as Asif Ambatadi, Shahil Manchila, Deepak Pilar, Sajid Ullal, and Naseer Samanige were present.
The event was compered by Demetrius D’Souza, with Cyril Robert D’Souza delivering the vote of thanks.
The protest concluded with a firm demand for immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents and students of Thokottu.