Mangaluru: Serious safety concerns have surfaced over the ongoing Bikarnakatte-Savanoor National Highway development project after newly constructed stretches developed cracks and showed signs of instability, triggering fears among commuters and local residents. Several portions of the highway are reportedly exhibiting cracks shortly after construction, while sections near Kudupu and Ganjimath have become vulnerable to erosion and possible collapse amid continuous monsoon rains.
Residents allege poor slope protection
Local residents have alleged that hillsides were cut during the highway construction without adopting adequate scientific slope stabilisation measures. They claim the absence of proper protection has increased the likelihood of landslides, especially during the ongoing monsoon season.
According to residents, persistent rainfall has exposed weaknesses in some sections of the project, leading to visible cracks on the road surface and raising questions over the quality of construction and safety measures adopted during execution.
They have expressed concern that if immediate corrective measures are not undertaken, the structural stability of the highway could deteriorate further, posing a serious threat to motorists.
Ganjimath stretch under scrutiny
Residents of Ganjimath have pointed to a particular stretch where a large depression was reportedly filled with soil to facilitate road construction. They allege that despite the nature of the terrain, no retaining wall or protective structure was constructed to secure the embankment.
With heavy rains continuing, locals fear that the filled soil could be washed away, weakening the foundation of the road and resulting in further damage or even partial collapse.
They have urged authorities to inspect the site and strengthen the embankment before the situation worsens.
Cracks reported near Kudupu
Similar concerns have emerged from the Kudupu stretch of the highway, where visible cracks have appeared on the newly laid road. Residents claim that certain portions are also showing signs of sinking, raising concerns about the durability of the construction.
Motorists travelling along the route have expressed apprehension over using the highway, particularly during heavy rainfall, fearing that the damaged sections could pose risks to vehicles and commuters.
The appearance of cracks within a short period of construction has prompted demands for a comprehensive technical inspection of the affected stretches.
Demand for immediate corrective measures
Residents have appealed to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the contractor executing the project to conduct an immediate inspection of the damaged sections and assess the extent of the structural issues.
They have also called for the construction of retaining walls, reinforcement of vulnerable embankments and repairs to the cracked portions of the highway to prevent further deterioration during the monsoon.
Locals warned that delaying corrective action could increase the risk of accidents and lead to more extensive damage if heavy rainfall continues. They stressed that ensuring the structural integrity of the highway is essential for the safety of thousands of commuters who use the route every day.