Concrete Footpaths and Footbridges to Transform Mangalore and Udupi Districts

The Public Works Department has embarked on a significant infrastructure development project aimed at improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in Mangalore and Udupi districts. This initiative will see the construction of concrete footpaths and footbridges, with a focus on areas frequently used by students commuting to school.

In the Dakshina Kannada (DK) district, the project includes the construction of 22 footbridges with an allocated budget of ₹404 lakhs. The process is set to move forward with tenders expected to be finalised within the next two months. The footbridges will be strategically placed across several taluks, addressing critical points where students and residents require safe crossing options.

The specific locations in DK district are:

Ullal Taluk: Kinya Belringe, Pavur village, Konaje village
Bantwala Taluk: Pilimogaru village, Mulki Padupanamburu village
Mangalore North Range: Adyar Village, Muttur, Ganjimath, Lower Bailu Matti
Mangalore South Assembly Constituency: Manapa Mannagudda Ward, Barke Ramamestri Compound, Kalu Sanka
Puttur Taluk: Koltige Manikkara, Netlamutnur Urdila, Kariyamgala Acharidota, Sarapadi Arbi Baja
Sulya Constituency: Kombaru Alve, Katte Hole, Mujur Mundadka Otikazi school

In Udupi district, ₹3 crores have been sanctioned for the construction of 30 footbridges. The distribution of these footbridges will be as follows:

Udupi: 2 footbridges
Kapu: 7 footbridges
Brahmavara: 2 footbridges
Bynduru: 4 footbridges
Kundapura: 2 footbridges
Hebri: 2 footbridges
Karkala: 11 footbridges

Executive Engineer Amarnath Jain highlighted that the primary goal of this initiative is to replace existing unpaved footpaths with durable concrete alternatives. The focus on school routes is intended to enhance the safety and convenience of students travelling to and from school, reducing the risks associated with poorly maintained paths and unsafe crossings.

The department expects to receive phased approval for additional proposals as the projects progress. This systematic approach aims to ensure that the most urgent needs are addressed first while allowing for continuous improvement of pedestrian infrastructure across both districts.

The new concrete footpaths and footbridges are anticipated to bring considerable benefits to the local communities, providing safer and more reliable routes for students and residents alike. The enhancement of pedestrian infrastructure not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also contributes to the long-term development and well-being of the districts.

As these projects move forward, residents of Mangalore and Udupi districts are likely to see marked improvements in their daily commutes, particularly in areas where school routes are heavily trafficked. The investment in concrete footpaths and footbridges represents a significant step towards creating a safer and more accessible environment for all.