Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 31: Nearly two years after the poor condition of the Valencia-Gorigudda road was highlighted, the stretch continues to remain in a state of disrepair, causing inconvenience to residents and motorists and raising serious concerns over road safety.
The road, which connects Valencia and Gorigudda and provides access to the NHAI network, is riddled with potholes at several stretches. Despite repeated complaints and earlier attempts at repairs, residents say the road continues to deteriorate and that a permanent solution is yet to be implemented.
The situation becomes particularly dangerous during the monsoon. Rainwater fills the potholes, making it difficult for motorists to judge their depth. What appears to be a small water-filled patch can conceal a deep pothole, posing a significant risk to two-wheeler riders.
Residents say several accidents have occurred along the stretch, with motorists sustaining injuries after hitting potholes or losing control while attempting to avoid them.
“During the rains, we cannot make out where the potholes are. Their depth cannot be judged because they are filled with water. Riders suddenly encounter them and can lose their balance,” said a resident.
The poor road condition has also affected local transport services. Another resident said auto-rickshaw drivers often refuse to travel towards the Valencia area because of the condition of the road.
“Many auto drivers do not agree to come to the Valencia area because of the road condition. This creates additional difficulty for residents, particularly those who depend on autos for their daily travel,” the resident said.
The road is a busy connecting route used by residents of Valencia, Gorigudda and surrounding areas. Students travelling to schools and colleges, patients and attendants visiting nearby hospitals and clinics, people visiting churches and temples, employees, shopkeepers and daily commuters regularly use the stretch.
The road also serves as an alternative route for motorists trying to avoid traffic congestion in Pumpwell and Kankanady. However, commuters are now forced to negotiate potholes, uneven surfaces and waterlogged portions.
Shopkeepers along the stretch have also expressed frustration over the prolonged condition of the road. Repeated excavation and incomplete roadwork have caused inconvenience to businesses and residents.
The condition of the road is not a new concern. In December 2024, the deteriorating Valencia-Gorigudda road had already been reported, with potholes along several portions of the stretch. Residents had then sought urgent repairs.
Almost two years later, however, the problem continues.
Previous repair attempts have failed to provide a lasting solution, with residents pointing to repeated excavation for various works and the subsequent deterioration of the road surface.
During heavy rainfall, the problem becomes more acute as waterlogged potholes become difficult to identify. Residents fear that continued neglect could lead to further accidents and injuries.
They have urged the concerned authorities to inspect the entire stretch and undertake comprehensive and durable repairs instead of repeatedly resorting to temporary measures.
Residents have also sought clarity on the authority responsible for maintaining the road and urged the concerned department to take immediate responsibility for its upkeep.
With the road continuing to deteriorate nearly two years after the issue was first highlighted, residents are once again appealing to the authorities to take prompt action and ensure a safe and properly maintained road for commuters.