Media Release
Udupi, Dec 17: Highway Consumer Forum Ambalpady staged a protest against the unscientific construction of an underpass at Ambalpady Junction on December 17.
The protesters raised concerns over the construction of the underpass without proper planning for drainage, service roads, or traffic management.
Highway Consumer Forum Ambalpady president Jaya C Kotian stated, “In the coastal region, underpasses and overpasses constructed in areas like Kundapur, Kota, Brahmavar, Santhekatte, and the coastal bypass have already proven to be unscientific. Such poorly executed projects have eroded public confidence in the National Highway Authority’s work. During the monsoon season, rainwater accumulates on either side of the service roads, causing severe inconvenience to vehicle users and pedestrians.”
Jaya further stated, “Vehicles related to the fishing industry, which rely heavily on the Kediyoor-Ambalpady road for access to Malpe port, now face additional disruptions. Amidst these challenges, the sudden commencement of the underpass work at Ambalpady Junction, initiated hastily and without any prior notification to the public or elected representatives, has led to confusion and skepticism. The project reportedly began without any formal ground-breaking ceremony or proper planning for essential infrastructure like drainage systems, service roads, or traffic flow.”
The protesters demanded that local MLAs, MPs, district officials, public representatives, and the National Highway Authority provide clear information about the project to resolve public confusion. They warned that if corrective measures are not taken, a large-scale protest involving fishermen from Byndoor to Mangaluru will be organized in the coming days.
The protesters urged that the current underpass work be immediately halted and detailed plans be shared with the public in the presence of elected representatives, district officials, and the National Highway Authority before resuming the project.
The protesters submitted a memorandum to the deputy commissioner of Udupi, demanding immediate action to address their concerns.
Leaders Manju Kola, Kishore D Suvarna, Shivaram Kota, Ramesh Kotian, Vinay Karkera, Dayananda Kundar, Rajendra Hiriyadka, Hariyappa, Jayanth Amin, Ravish, and others participated in the protest.