Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Dec 2: Udupi continues to draw attention for its poor road conditions, with a particularly dangerous stretch on Kalsanka-Ambagilu Road near Silas International School worsening commuters’ woes. Around a manhole, the road has completely worn away, and large potholes have formed due to constant vehicular movement, posing serious safety risks.
Daijiworld.com had previously highlighted the issue, but only temporary measures were taken. Within days, the road returned to its hazardous state, underlining a trend where roads are repaired primarily when VIP movement is expected, residents say.
Every day, hundreds of students use this road to reach Silas International School. During peak hours, heavy traffic forces motorists to swerve dangerously close to the edges to avoid the manhole. Although a barricade has been placed to block vehicles from the damaged section, it has created additional hazards at night, as speeding vehicles risk crashing into it. The narrowed road also causes frequent congestion during busy periods.
Gravel scattered from the potholes has made the surface particularly risky for two-wheelers, increasing the chances of skidding and accidents. The danger escalates at night, when the manhole is nearly invisible, and the uneven, eroded tar surface continues to cause mishaps.
With the Paryaya festival scheduled in January, thousands of devotees from Kundapura and Brahmavar are expected to use this road to reach Sri Krishna Math, turning the pothole-strewn stretch into a major black spot and raising serious public safety concerns.
Local resident Prabhakar Poojary said, “Development activity in Udupi district is very low, as we can see many roads in a devastated state. Recently, during the Prime Minister’s visit, the road from Adi Udupi to Karavali Bypass was repaired immediately, but other roads remain neglected. The municipality and district administration must take action and repair this road. The manhole has risen above the tar level, which is causing accidents. If the city municipality does not provide a permanent solution, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike will hold a fierce protest at the City Municipality.”
Auto driver Immanuel D’Souza added, “The road has completely worn off and has already caused several accidents. We request the authorities to immediately repair the road and ensure the safety of the public.”
Despite repeated complaints and reminders from citizens, the Udupi City Municipality and district administration have failed to implement permanent corrective measures, forcing residents to navigate unsafe roads and placing their lives at constant risk.