Rainwater accumulation on national highways and city four-lane roads in Mangaluru is causing a surge in accidents as high-speed vehicles splash muddy water onto oncoming traffic. This issue is particularly hazardous when water collects at the edges of roads, leading to vehicles splashing water onto windshields and startling drivers, which increases the risk of losing control.
Areas like MCF Baikampady, NMPT Panambur, Surathkal, Kuntikan, Thokkottu, Pumpwell, Nanthoor, and Kuloor on National Highway 66, and BC Road, Farangipete, and the Padil railway underpass on National Highway 75 are frequently affected by water accumulation. Within the city, locations such as the Jail Road to MG Road connection, Ballalbagh, Chilimbi, and Kankanady also experience significant water stagnation, making travel perilous for two-wheelers and pedestrians alike.
The situation is worsened by large potholes, particularly on NH 66 from Kuloor to Surathkal, where the Kuloor bridge’s surface has deteriorated, exposing gravel. The combination of poor road conditions and frequent evening traffic jams is delaying ambulances and emergency travelers, while also making inner-city travel increasingly difficult.
Adding to the problem is the practice of parking trucks and large containers along the highways, which reduces visibility during rain and leads to collisions and traffic congestion.
Mayor Sudhir Shetty Kannur acknowledged the issue, stating, “The problem of standing water and splashing on roads has been noted. High-speed traffic poses serious risks. A letter will be sent to the national highway department to address and rectify this issue.”