Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Nov 27: District commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari emphasized the need to prioritize works such as service roads, median openings, and flyover in Brahmavar, as requested by the local residents. She stated that decisions regarding the removal of road dividers would be taken based on site inspections conducted as part of road safety meetings.
Presiding over a meeting at the Rajathadri district office hall in Manipal on Wednesday, November 27, she discussed repairing potholes caused by monsoon rains and addressing other issues on National Highway 66.
She highlighted that addressing public grievances about road maintenance in coordination with contractors and the National Highway Authority would reduce complaints to the district administration. “We cannot convene a meeting every time for minor issues. Contractors and subordinate staff should be instructed to respond to public concerns about highway-related issues and take prompt action. Only then can these problems be resolved effectively,” she said.
Dr Vidyakumari directed the contractors and the National Highway Authority to ensure regular maintenance of roads so that vehicles can travel smoothly, avoiding inconvenience to the public. She stressed the need for pothole repairs and proper maintenance of streetlights along the roads, as complaints from the public have increased due to monsoon-related damage.
She further noted that the National Highway Authority has implemented an online app for managing complaints related to highway issues. Public grievances can be uploaded on the app. Additionally, exemptions will continue to be provided for residents living within a 5 km radius of toll booths, as done previously, but this will not apply to commercial vehicles, she clarified.
Local representatives at the meeting brought attention to several issues, including pothole repairs, maintenance of streetlights, removal of overgrown vegetation on roadsides, upkeep of pedestrian paths, shoulder maintenance, and repainting road markings.
The meeting was attended by district superintendent of police Dr Arun K, National Highway Authority project director Abdullah Mohammad Azmi, tahsildars, contractors, and others.