Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Feb 5: Residents of Barebail, Vyasanagar, KPT, Yeyyady, and Kuntikan staged a protest in front of Planet SKS, a residential apartment, on the National Highway, opposing the sudden blocking of a major U-turn by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). While the authorities reportedly closed the U-turn citing frequent accidents and safety concerns, the residents argued that the step was taken without providing any alternative service road or proper public consultation.

The protesters stated that they are not against safety measures but questioned why the U-turn was shut without making arrangements for a parallel service road or regulated access. “If accidents were happening, the government could have introduced signals, speed control, or a service road. Simply closing the U-turn is not a solution,” a resident said.

According to the joint representation submitted by the locals, the closure was implemented without prior public notice, traffic impact assessment, or approval from the local administration and traffic police. The residents alleged that this unilateral decision has severely affected daily life in the surrounding localities.

They pointed out that emergency services such as ambulances and fire vehicles are facing delays, while students, working professionals, and senior citizens are forced to travel several extra kilometres to reach schools, offices, hospitals, and markets. The diversion has also led to increased fuel expenses, traffic congestion, and a higher risk of accidents on interior roads.

The demonstrators demanded that the authorities either reopen the U-turn or immediately construct a functional service road before enforcing such restrictions. They urged the district administration to intervene and find a practical solution that ensures both road safety and public convenience.

A memorandum was submitted to the concerned officials seeking urgent action. The residents warned that they would intensify the protest if a positive response is not received at the earliest.