Pics: Anush Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (AP/EP)

Mangaluru, Feb 16: Eyes are not sufficient to see the natural beauty near Netravati bridge. Groups of boys run to witness the train passing on one side, water flowing on the other, refreshing cool breeze and view of pretty sunset. However, there is an atmosphere of fear that lurks.

The foot bridge made up of iron rods has become so feeble over the years that it is about to give way. A wooden pole was a bridge here about thirty six years ago. Iron rods were fixed later. The bridge poses risk to the lives of people. Elected representatives do not look toward this side. People say that they may act only after a disaster occurs.

More than 350 families reside here. The elderly, school and college students and hundreds of others inevitably walk on the foot bridge to the bus stop with fear of death. Passengers arriving by train from Kannur have to alight at the railway crossing and walk on the bridge to take the bus. It is also the shortest route for passengers to commute to other places in the city.

A local resident said that the MLA was requested about it several times, but to no avail. He urged him to attend to the problem and to save lives.

MLA J R Lobo says that Rs 35 lac is released for the purpose and the corporation should take up the work.

Local corporator Surendra said that he has met the local MLA accompanied by villagers and explained the problem to him. “He had assured that he will provide money from MLA's funds. I do not know about release of Rs 35 lacs. I will ask the MLA,” he said.

Mayor Kavitha Sanil said that she has no information about it. “I could have spoken if it was in my ward. I will find out why the work is not done. I do not know about the release of funds.”