Pics: Adithya Aithal

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Sep 19: The long-delayed construction of the Santhekatte underpass has come to a complete standstill once again — this time for over a month — leaving daily commuters and residents to endure worsening road conditions and mounting frustration.

Previously, progress was hampered due to the presence of massive underground rocks and a shortage of labour. After persistent public protests and sustained reporting by daijiworld.com, work had briefly resumed. However, construction was halted in May owing to the onset of monsoon rains, and despite the weather clearing, the work has not restarted since.

Currently, only a single lane is operational, forcing all vehicular traffic onto a narrow, damaged stretch. The lane connecting Kundapura to Udupi remains dug up for concrete work and has been left unattended for months, severely impacting daily commuters.

Potholes have widened near the underpass junction, and the road leading from Kalyanpura stream is in a state of total disrepair. Gravel, loose debris, and deep craters cover the stretch, posing a daily hazard to motorists. The asphalt on both service roads has completely worn away, making the commute even more treacherous.

In a sign of growing public anger, frustrated residents have erected banners at the site, urging authorities to immediately resume construction. The service road—frequented by school and college students waiting for buses—has remained in poor condition since the project began two years ago. With no permanent solution in sight, many feel abandoned by the administration.

Adding to the risk, sections of the underpass remain partially built, with exposed metal rods and incomplete structures endangering both motorists and pedestrians. Locals allege that every stage of construction has been “half-done,” contributing to a growing sense of helplessness and neglect.

Authorities had earlier assured the public that the underpass would be completed before the monsoon. However, residents claim that not even 50 percent of the work has been completed to date.

Locals are demanding immediate resumption of construction, along with urgent road repairs to ensure safe and smooth travel. Many are calling for temporary asphalt on the service road as a stopgap measure until the project is fully completed.