NHAI clears encroachments along NH-66 from Kundapur to Talapady

Mangaluru: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has intensified efforts to keep the NH-66 corridor free from encroachments, conducting a removal drive at various locations along the Kundapur–Talapady section of the highway.

The drive was carried out by the NHAI Project Implementation Unit (PIU), Mangaluru, under the Regional Office in Bengaluru. Unauthorized structures and other encroachments within the National Highway Right of Way (ROW) were removed as part of the exercise.

Drive aimed at improving road safety

According to NHAI, the action was undertaken primarily to strengthen road safety along the busy coastal highway. Removing encroachments from the highway corridor is expected to improve visibility for motorists and create better conditions for the smooth movement of traffic.

Encroachments within the highway’s Right of Way can restrict visibility, reduce available road space and create potential hazards for motorists and pedestrians, particularly along busy stretches of NH-66.

Coastal highway corridor under focus

The Kundapur–Talapady section connects important towns and cities along the Karnataka coast, including Udupi and Mangaluru, and carries significant volumes of passenger and commercial traffic.

The latest enforcement drive forms part of efforts to safeguard the highway corridor and ensure that land within the designated Right of Way remains available for its intended purpose.

NHAI said such measures are aimed at protecting road users and improving the overall condition and functionality of the national highway.

Focus on safer NH-66

The authority’s action also highlights the importance of maintaining clear highway corridors as traffic volumes continue to increase along the coastal route.

With the Kundapur–Talapady stretch serving as a major transportation link along coastal Karnataka, keeping the highway free from unauthorised structures is expected to contribute to safer and smoother journeys.

NHAI said the encroachment removal drive was undertaken for the benefit of all road users, while strengthening highway maintenance and safety along NH-66.