Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Aug 9: The recently asphalted Katapady-Shirva road has rapidly deteriorated, creating significant challenges for vehicular traffic, and requires immediate repair.
The road, which has numerous potholes, forces two-wheeler riders to navigate cautiously, often placing their feet on the ground for support. The road transforms into a virtual pool during heavy rains, exacerbating the danger for motorists. Recent temporary fixes using gravel have already begun to wear off.
Potholes between Achchada cross near Katapadi market have been seen, accidents are common here. The potholes fill with rainwater making it difficult for motorists to understand the depth of the pothole. Publics have raised concern about problems caused by potholes on the road in Subhashnagar, Kunjarugiri cross, Shankarpura, Bantakall, Panjimaru-Attinje cross near Ganapathi temple, near Shirva Masjid.
Madhan Manipal, resident of Katapady has produced and sung the song on the deteriorated condition of the road, which has received praise from people over the district. The song resulted in temporary repair of the road.
Madhan Manipal, a local resident, expressed frustration over the recurrent issue with the road, and said, “It is incredibly difficult to travel on this road especially to elderly people. After I composed a song highlighting the poor condition of the road, the authorities made a temporary repair. However, this fix might not withstand the rain. I hope my song has reached the concerned authorities. It is a recurring problem every year and a permanent solution such as concreting the road is urgently needed.”
Hidayath Sahib, social worker, said, “The issue of the road’s poor condition is not new. Frequent accidents and injuries due to the hazardous road condition can be seen here. The lack of coordination between departments responsible for road maintenance can be seen. I urge the responsible authorities to travel on this road in motorcycle and experience the condition firsthand, only then they will understand the people’s problem. In a recent general meeting I raised this issue. All representatives of people must take special interest and give permanent solutions.”
Neema Lobo, another local resident, highlighted the difficulties faced by commuters and said “Traveling on this road has been troublesome for a long time. After Madan’s song brought attention to the issue, the authorities made a temporary repair. However, the road is still in a hazardous state beyond Subhash Nagar. Even experienced riders are struggling and social reformers have yet to address the problem. Common people continue to suffer and it is essential that this issue receives the attention it deserves.”
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