Media Release
Udupi, Sep 25: The residents are growing increasingly frustrated with the prolonged mismanagement of the Santhekatte National Highway underpass project. KPCC spokesperson Veronica Cornelio has criticized the local Member of Parliament (MP) and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for dragging their feet and wasting time, instead of pushing the central government for a permanent solution.
The underpass construction, which began three years ago, should have been executed with proper precautionary measures, Cornelio stated. She acknowledged that issues during development projects are common, but it is the government's duty to provide adequate alternative arrangements for the public. Although a service road was built to serve as a temporary route, the existing road's tar was removed and left uneven, causing significant hardship for commuters. People have been enduring this situation for the past two years, and motorists are left frustrated as the road remains unsuitable for use.
A portion of the new road has been opened for traffic, but another section near Santhekatte remains closed. The foundation of the road has not been adequately strengthened to handle heavy traffic, and merely laying a thin layer of tar over the surface is insufficient. This unscientific approach has led to potholes forming after just one rainfall, despite modern technology that allows for roadwork even during the rainy season. The negligence of the National Highway department is apparent, and Cornelio condemned the MP for being equally indifferent to the situation.
Santhekatte Junction is always bustling, and the service road connecting it to the national highway via the nearby market has been left without proper tar or paving, forcing vehicles to drive over rough stones. On Sundays, when the market is in full swing, pedestrians are forced to navigate between vehicles, putting their lives at risk. Cornelio questioned whether this disregard for public safety is a result of local MPs and MLAs not taking the issue seriously. Apart from giving statements and conducting inspections, no tangible progress has been made on the Santhekatte road, she lamented.
Cornelio also expressed concern that the construction may drag on for another year or two, forcing the public and motorists to continue suffering. She criticized the local representatives for their inability to address the issue with the relevant authorities. The previous MP, after winning an election in a different constituency, left the project incomplete, while the newly elected MP, despite being from the region, has failed to hold officials accountable. Even when instructions are given, officials seem to disregard them, she added.
Cornelio further targeted the local MLA, accusing him of focusing on national and state issues while neglecting local problems, despite his party being in power at the centre. She questioned why the MLA has not exerted pressure on the central government to resolve the issue. "After being elected by the people, it is your responsibility to lobby with central ministers for a solution. Why is there negligence in handling the Santhekatte road project?" she demanded.
In her press release, Veronica Cornelio called on both the MP and MLA to work together, urgently bring attention to the problem, and ensure proper arrangements are made to resolve the situation.