Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jan 27: National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) regional officers, alongside MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, conducted a joint inspection at the NH 66 Santhekatte work site and accident-prone Uchilla stretch, assuring swift repair action following mounting public concerns.
Frustrated by delays, MP Kota had threatened a protest in Bengaluru over the slow progress, prompting NHAI officials to act quickly. On January 27, they visited Udupi for a thorough on-site review with local authorities.
Regional Officer Vilas P Brahmankar and his team inspected the Santhekatte underpass and promised immediate asphaltation of the Udupi-Kundapura stretch, with work starting right away.
The main road's asphaltation is expected to be completed in three days, alleviating dust problems for commuters. Officials also requested extra time to finish constructing retaining walls.
“I have no objections, as long as the roads are usable at the earliest,” MP Kota said, urging authorities to ensure smooth traffic flow.
The inspection also addressed key concerns, including the disorganized crossing near Uchila Bus Stand, a dangerous U-turn near Muloor School, and issues with streetlights, reflectors, and service roads.
MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty called for an underpass near Mahalaxmi Temple and faster solutions to drainage and service road speed breakers.
The NHAI team also checked the flyover work at Ambalpady. The inspection was attended by Udupi SP Dr Arun K, additional DC Nagaraj Nayak, Project Director Javed Azmi, former MLA Lalaji Mendon, and others.