Pics: Niranjan M N

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Sep 25: The Santhekatte underpass construction site, already notorious for its slow progress and poor road condition, is once again causing severe inconvenience to commuters.

The Kundapur–Udupi National Highway, which merges with the newly constructed concrete road connecting Udupi to Kundapur, has worn out completely at the merging point, leaving motorists frustrated.

Due to the incomplete Kundapur–Udupi lane work, vehicles are currently allowed to travel on a single lane only. The diversions provided for commuters have deteriorated badly, with large potholes making travel extremely difficult.

Several potholes on the service road and near the diversions are so deep that, when filled with rainwater, they become nearly impossible to judge, leading to vehicle damage. The situation slows vehicular movement, causing massive traffic congestion during peak hours.

Construction at the site appears to have come to a complete standstill, worsening the condition of the road as heavy vehicles continue to use this route. Despite Daijiworld.com previously highlighting the issue, no concrete action has been taken by the concerned authorities.

Residents, increasingly frustrated, have repeatedly voiced their concerns. However, the district administration and local representatives appear to be ignoring the worsening road condition.

With only one operational lane, traffic during peak hours has become unmanageable. As this stretch forms a crucial link for goods carriers and ambulances travelling between Kundapur and Udupi, the slow traffic movement results in delays that can have serious consequences.

Frequent accidents caused by unscientific road work, poor planning, and deep potholes are further enraging commuters and residents, who are now demanding immediate repairs of the diversions and the resumption of construction work on a priority basis.