Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, March 7: Ongoing delays in national highway projects across Udupi district have caused significant inconvenience to the public, prompting District Commissioner Dr K Vidya Kumari to issue a firm warning to officials and contractors.

Chairing a review meeting at the Rajathadri DC Office in Manipal, Dr Vidya Kumari assessed the progress of several key highway projects in the district. Her main concern was the prolonged delay in the construction of the Indrali Railway Overpass, which was initiated in 2018 but remains unfinished. This delay has led to traffic congestion, accidents, and fatalities, causing growing frustration among the public.

"For the past six months, we have been closely monitoring the project and holding regular review meetings, but progress has been slower than expected. Engineers and contractors must take this matter seriously and accelerate the construction process. If the work is not completed promptly, legal action will be taken," Dr. Vidya Kumari warned.

The fabrication of iron girders for the overpass has already been completed, and Dr Vidya Kumari has instructed the railway and national highway authorities to jointly inspect the girders for quality assurance. She also urged engineers to begin preparations for installing the girders on the bridge without further delay.

Additionally, Dr Vidya Kumari emphasised the need to expedite the land acquisition process for the National Highway 169A coastal bypass from Malpe. She instructed authorities to swiftly relocate electric poles and urged property owners to cooperate with the process.

She also insisted that compensation for land acquisition should be deposited in advance, warning that officials must seek police assistance if any obstacles arise.

Another key directive concerned the underpass construction on National Highway 66 between Santhekatte and Ambalapadi. Dr Vidya Kumari stressed that this project must be completed within a month to prevent disruptions during the upcoming monsoon season.

The meeting was attended by various officials, including Udupi District Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun K, assistant commissioner Maheshchandra, National Highway Authority project director Abdullah Mohammad Ajmi, assistant executive engineer of the Sringeri-Chikkamagaluru National Highway division Manjunath, contractors, and other local authorities.

Dr. Vidya Kumari’s warning highlights the district administration’s commitment to addressing the delays and ensuring timely completion of critical infrastructure projects for the benefit of the public.