NHAI’s Service Roads Initiative Aims to Relieve Traffic Congestion on Mulky-Talpady
To tackle escalating traffic issues, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has unveiled plans to construct service roads at four key locations along the Mulky-Talpady highway. The announcement followed a series of critical questions raised by MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta about the delayed service road construction on the Mulky-Hejmadi stretch, during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring (DISHA) meeting held on Saturday, March 1, at the Zilla Panchayat.
Abdulla Javed, representing NHAI, revealed that the service roads will be built at Mulky, Padupanambur, Haleyangadi, and Beeri, with construction slated to begin after the monsoon season. These developments are part of an ongoing effort to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion in the region.
Javed also provided updates on other significant infrastructure projects, noting that 95.4% of work has been completed between Addahole and Periashanthi, while 75% of work is finished from B C Road to Periashanthi. The highly anticipated Kalladka flyover is expected to be completed and open to traffic by April.
Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) officials further shared plans to start the construction of a service road from Pumpwell to Gorigudda next week, at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore, aimed at improving traffic flow in the area.
In addition to these developments, MLA Umanath Kotian raised concerns about the toll burden on residents of Hejmady Grama Panchayat, calling for toll-free access at the Hejmady toll gate. NHAI reassured the public that concessional passes had already been issued. To address the issue further, MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta directed the Deputy Commissioner to organize a dedicated meeting.
To further improve public transport, Capt. Chowta also asked KSRTC officials to explore the possibility of launching a bus service from Nettana to Subramanya Kshetra, which would provide better connectivity to the pilgrimage town following the extension of the Mangaluru Central to Kabaka Puttur train service.
In response to increasing concerns about local law and order, MLC Kishore Kumar urged authorities to take swift action against the rising drug menace in the region. Meanwhile, MLA Harish Poonja highlighted the looming closure of Shiradi Ghat from March 15 for one month, which could severely disrupt travel. Poonja urged authorities to coordinate efforts to minimize the impact on commuters.
As these projects progress, there is optimism that the region will see significant improvements in both traffic management and infrastructure, addressing long-standing challenges faced by local residents.