Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 14: In a recent development, buses traveling from Clock Tower towards Hampankatta, Bautagudda, and K S Rao Road are now permitted to stop at the Hampankatta Junction (Signal) to pick up passengers. This decision allows buses to halt at both the junction and the newly constructed shelter, but it has also led to traffic congestion in the area.
Nearly all private city buses, express buses, and KSRTC buses departing from the State Bank bus stand pass through the Hampankatta Junction. Historically, this junction has been a popular spot for passengers to board buses.
Two years ago, when the signal lights were reinstalled at Hampankatta, the stopping of buses near the signal caused significant disruptions to the flow of traffic. Recognizing this issue, the police had prohibited buses from picking up passengers at the signal, and barricades were placed to prevent passengers from standing there.
New bus shelter construction
To address the issue, a new bus shelter was constructed in front of Mangalore University College, just before the signal. Buses were allowed to stop at this shelter instead of at the signal, which temporarily resolved the traffic congestion problem. The reduced congestion near the signal also made it easier for vehicles to take the free left turn.
However, the barricades near the signal have now been completely removed, and buses are once again allowed to stop and pick up passengers at the signal. Buses can also continue to stop at the new shelter, providing multiple options for passengers in the area.