Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Mar 3: The demand of Ambalpady residents to construct an underpass or a flyover at Ambalpady junction received a major boost with Abu Dhabi-based businessman Dr B R Shetty taking part in the protest meet organized by Ambalpady highway consumers' welfare committee here on Thursday March 3.
Addressing the protest meet, Dr B R Shetty said, "This issue need not call for a protest. I will convince the minister and other authorities concerned to start the work at Ambalpady junction as soon as possible. Let us work towards smooth functioning of the traffic.
"I have witnessed many accidents on the highway while crossing roads. Under these circumstances, let us not worry or agitate regarding the issue. A request letter on the issue will be sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, transport minister Nitin Gadkari and state ministers concerned."
He also assured to talk to municipal vice-chairman of Udupi about construction of Ambalpady underpass or flyover and that he would approach the central government regarding the issue.
"We need only an underpass here. We do not need any highway bridge. BJP leader Priya Tondon will present this problem in front of all the central ministers concerned and soon a solution will be chalked out," he added.
Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, "Prime Minister Modi is the pride of the nation and the central government is working in favour of development. He is identified as one of the top leaders in the world. No one is able to compete against him. He is doing good work for nation ever since he was elected as the Prime Minister.
"India is shining all over the world and despite economic meltdown, India's economy is still improving," he added.
Sri Sugunendrateertha Swamiji of Puttige Math also appreciated works done by Prime Minister Modi.
"When PM Modi had gone abroad he had expressed disappointment over the condition of India’s road transport. Modi feels that it is right time to bring changes. It is very essential to have good transport facilities," added the Swamiji.
Sripathi Tanthy alleged that former MP Jayaprakash Hegde was the reason behind stopping the underpass work on Ambalpady junction, by writing to the then union transport minister Oscar Fernandes suggesting that a foot overbridge would better serve the purpose at Ambalpady junction than an underpass, which would result in clogging and stagnation of water during rainy season. Subsequently, the plan to construct an underpass at the junction was dropped by the NHAI.
Nandini, Shantraj Aithal, Altaf and others were present.