Mangaluru: A tourist bus accident on the Padil-Nantur route led to severe traffic congestion on Monday morning, causing slow movement for commuters and raising concerns over road safety in the area. Local authorities and traffic police have been working to clear the site and manage the affected stretch, which is a key arterial road connecting central Mangaluru with northern suburbs.
Details of the accident
According to the Mangaluru traffic police, the incident involved a private tourist bus carrying passengers for a local sightseeing trip. The bus reportedly skidded off the road near Padil, leading to minor damages to the vehicle and blocking one lane of the busy route. Initial reports suggest that no serious injuries were reported, though some passengers sustained minor bruises and were attended to at the site.
Traffic authorities quickly arrived at the scene to divert vehicles and assist commuters, but the Padil-Nantur route experienced slow traffic for nearly two hours during the morning rush. Commuters reported delays of up to 45 minutes to an hour, with many using alternative routes to reach their destinations.
Impact on commuters
The accident caused congestion along the Padil-Nantur corridor, which serves as a major link for office-goers, school buses, and commercial transport. Many commuters expressed frustration over the delays, highlighting the need for better traffic management and accident response protocols.
Local authorities requested residents and commuters to use alternate routes such as the Airport Road or Kankanady bypass to avoid long delays while traffic clearance operations continued.
Road safety concerns
This incident comes amid growing concern over road safety in Mangaluru, especially on routes frequented by tourist buses and heavy vehicles. Authorities have urged bus operators and drivers to adhere to speed limits, avoid distractions, and ensure that vehicles are regularly maintained.
Traffic experts noted that urban roads with heavy morning traffic are prone to congestion during accidents or vehicle breakdowns. The Padil-Nantur route, being a key arterial road, is particularly sensitive to any disruptions, underscoring the need for efficient accident response mechanisms.