Udupi: Member of Parliament Kota Srinivas Poojary has urged authorities and contractors to prioritise public safety on National Highway-66, warning that since tolls are being collected, commuters are entitled to safe and smooth travel in return.
Chairing a review meeting on NH-66 works at Rajathadri Hall in Manipal, the MP expressed serious concern over the rising number of accidents on the highway. He pointed out that more than 250 accidents have taken place in the past two years, with eight people killed on the spot in just the last two months.
Black spots and safety gaps
“Contractors should not limit themselves to toll collection. Scientific measures must be taken at accident-prone black spots, with proper road lighting and signage installed. These works must be completed within a month to make highways accident-free,” Poojary instructed.
He further demanded that details of ongoing projects be displayed at all work sites for public awareness. Referring to complaints about poor streetlight maintenance at Padubidri, he warned that both officials and contractors would be held accountable if negligence led to mishaps.
Foot overbridges and service roads
The MP announced that approval has already been granted for three foot overbridges along the 66-km stretch of service road between Koteshwar and Hejamadi. With more than 70% of the materials already procured, he directed officials to begin work without delay.
He also stressed the urgent need for service roads along the Hejamadi–Kundapur section, a demand frequently raised by locals.
Flyovers to ease congestion
Plans are underway to construct flyovers at Padubidri, Brahmavar, and Kota. “If the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are prepared and submitted quickly, the central authority will approve them. Officials must act without delay,” Poojary said.
MLA Gurmey Suresh Shetty echoed this demand, urging that priority be given to constructing the Padubidri flyover, a junction notorious for accidents.
Street lighting concerns
Deputy Commissioner Swaroop T.K. pointed out that several installed streetlights were inadequate. He recommended installing bulbs with a minimum illumination of 240 volts to improve night-time visibility.
MLA Yashpal Suvarna highlighted the urgent need for land acquisition to complete the service road between Udyavara and Balaipade, stressing that delays were inconveniencing locals and posing safety risks.
Members of the National Highway Safety Committee also pressed for service roads, flyovers, median openings, and improved street lighting within Brahmavar town limits.
Officials and stakeholders present
The meeting was attended by Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, Assistant Commissioner Rashmi, NHAI Project Director Abdullah Mohammad Azmi, district officials, contractors, engineers, and members of the Highway Safety Committee.
Conclusion
The review meeting concluded with firm directives from the MP to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and contractors. With accident figures mounting and public anger growing, Poojary insisted on visible progress within a month, warning that accountability would rest squarely on those tasked with ensuring road safety.