A major protest against the Waqf Amendment Act is scheduled at Shah Garden Maidan, Adyar-Kannur, along the Mangaluru-Bengaluru highway on April 18. Authorities anticipate a large turnout, leading to possible traffic jams on National Highway 73, especially between Padil and B.C. Road.

To manage congestion, Mangaluru Police have suggested alternate routes. Commissioner Anupam Agrawal announced that from 12 noon to 9 pm, heavy and medium goods carriers—like trucks and tankers (excluding emergency, essential, and local service vehicles)—must avoid the Padil to B.C. Road stretch via Pumpwell, Nanthoor, Kannur, and Adyar.

All types of goods vehicles and intercity buses are urged to bypass the Pumpwell – Farangipete corridor. Similarly, two-wheelers and light vehicles heading via Padil – Kannur – Adyar Katte are encouraged to seek alternate paths.

Parking on either side of the highway, particularly along Pumpwell – B.C. Road, is strictly prohibited during this period.

To ease movement:

  • Vehicles from Puttur, Bantwal, or Beltangadi to Mangaluru/Kasargod may opt for Melkar – Mudipu – Deralakatte – Thokkottu.

  • Vehicles from B.C. Road towards Mangaluru/Udupi can divert through Polali Dwara – Neermarga – Kulashekara – Nanthoor.

  • Light vehicles may also take Valachil – Merlapadavu – Neermarga or Harekala Bridge – Konaje – Deralakatte.

Other options include Bikarnakatte – Baithurli – Kalpane and Kaikamba – Moodbidri for travel between Surathkal/Udupi and B.C. Road.

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