Netizens attributed the convoy’s reduced speed to severe potholes, waterlogging and persistent traffic congestion along the busy corridor connecting Mangaluru and Udupi, a key commuter route.

The Ambalpady road has increasingly turned hazardous for motorists, with large potholes filled with rainwater making it difficult to identify damaged portions of the surface.

Commuters say this poses a serious risk, particularly to two-wheeler riders, who remain the most vulnerable on the stretch.

Residents and regular commuters also point out that loose stones scattered across the road further aggravate the danger, with several instances of vehicles reportedly losing balance while navigating the damaged sections. The situation worsens during peak hours when traffic builds up heavily despite the presence of traffic police personnel.

The deteriorating condition of the road has raised serious safety concerns, with repeated complaints highlighting risks faced by two-wheeler riders in particular.

Meanwhile, the Ambalpady flyover project, currently in its final stages of construction, was expected to ease congestion in the region. However, concerns have emerged over the structure being used as an informal parking space for logistics and local transport vehicles, which motorists say is creating additional bottlenecks and reducing the effectiveness of the nearly completed infrastructure.

The issue gained renewed attention following Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s visit to Udupi, with social media users pointing to the poor road condition as a possible reason for the convoy’s reduced speed. The discussion has since triggered fresh demands from residents for urgent intervention by authorities.

Locals have urged the National Highways Authority of India and the district administration to undertake immediate pothole repairs, remove loose gravel, prevent unauthorised parking on the flyover, and expedite completion and commissioning of the project to ensure safer and smoother travel for the public.