Pics: Nithin Pereira

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Dec 11: The long-pending overpass and road development works at Santhekatte continue to progress at a slow pace, causing persistent inconvenience to thousands of daily commuters. While vehicle movement on the Udupi–Brahmavar stretch has improved slightly due to partial completion of the concrete road, the overpass remains unfinished, prolonging hardships for local residents.

Work on the project began in 2023, but even after three years, a major portion remains incomplete. Only a few workers are currently engaged at the site, raising concerns among citizens about whether the project will be completed within the stipulated time. Authorities maintain that efforts are underway to finish the remaining works, though locals remain doubtful.

The service roads around the construction area have deteriorated severely after months of heavy vehicular movement. Large potholes, broken asphalt and uneven surfaces have made driving particularly difficult. City buses, service buses, goods vehicles and other vehicles heading toward Lakshminagar are forced to navigate these damaged stretches daily, resulting in frequent congestion during peak hours.

Vehicles arriving from Kemmannu and Kallianpur are currently required to take a detour via Nayampally to reach Udupi. However, many motorists continue using the service road, causing blockages and slowing traffic flow. Although a one-way signboard has been installed, enforcement remains weak. Traffic police are deployed only during morning and evening rush hours.

Construction of the overpass pillars has made some progress, but the overall pace continues to be slow. Officials from the National Highways Authority claim that the structure will be completed before the next monsoon, though ground-level observations indicate that substantial work is still pending.

The prolonged construction has also dealt a major blow to businesses located between Nayampally and Santhekatte. With vehicles diverted to the lower road, customer footfall has dropped sharply. Bakeries, grocery shops, salons and fast-food outlets have seen a steep decline in sales, forcing some establishments to down shutters. Shops that remain open face a severe parking shortage, further discouraging customers.

Commuters and traders alike hope that authorities will expedite the remaining works and restore smooth traffic flow in Santhekatte. As delays continue, the region remains affected by congestion, damaged roads and economic setbacks—issues that residents believe can be resolved only with timely completion of the project.