Mangaluru: In a devastating accident on Monday evening, a 65-year-old woman was killed while crossing the Ullal National Highway 66 near Adankudru on the outskirts of Mangaluru.
Accident Details
The victim, identified as Baby, a resident of Sevanthi Gudde in Thokkottu, was struck by a speeding car while crossing the highway to board a bus on her way to a night shift job in Kankanady Pumpwell. She died on the spot.
The impact of the collision caused the woman to fall into a deep gorge at the edge of the highway. In a subsequent chain reaction, another car overtaking the one that struck Baby lost control and veered into roadside bushes, injuring two individuals. Both drivers were admitted to a local hospital.
Community Concerns
Residents of Adankudru and nearby Kallapu have raised serious concerns about the unscientific design of the highway, citing frequent accidents and fatalities. The lack of service roads and pedestrian crossings forces residents to navigate high-speed traffic to reach bus stops, resulting in dangerous situations.
Two-wheelers and autorickshaws often exacerbate the problem by traveling in the wrong direction on one-way roads, further contributing to traffic chaos.
Demands for Action
Locals have called on the police department and civic authorities to implement permanent safety measures in the area. Suggestions include the construction of service roads, installation of pedestrian crossings, and enhanced traffic control systems to prevent future accidents.
