Mangaluru: In a significant development for coastal Karnataka’s infrastructure landscape, Captain Brijesh Chowta has announced that the long-pending Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the Mangaluru Bypass and the Surathkal–B.C. Road upgradation have been sanctioned. The approvals also include the development of service roads along National Highway-66 (NH-66) from Talapady to Kundapur, a stretch considered vital for regional connectivity and port access.
The sanction of these DPRs marks an important milestone for one of the most congested and strategically critical highway corridors in the state. The corridor serves as a key entry point into Mangaluru city and functions as an essential access route to the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), industrial areas, educational hubs and commercial centres in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
Long-standing demands finally addressed
For several years, commuters, traders, transport operators and residents along the NH-66 corridor have been grappling with traffic congestion, frequent accidents and infrastructure bottlenecks. The absence of continuous service roads, narrow stretches and poor junction design have been persistent concerns, especially between Talapady near the Kerala border and Kundapur in Udupi district.
Captain Brijesh Chowta, in a statement, said the sanctioning of these DPRs comes after sustained efforts to highlight the everyday hardships faced by the public. He noted that the issues were not merely about traffic inconvenience but also about safety, economic growth and the long-term development of the region.
“These interventions address a critical highway corridor that serves as a key entry point into Mangaluru and an essential port-access route,” he said, underlining the broader importance of the projects.
Mangaluru Bypass to decongest the city
The proposed Mangaluru Bypass is expected to play a crucial role in easing traffic congestion within city limits. At present, long-distance vehicles and heavy commercial traffic passing through NH-66 and NH-75 are forced to traverse busy urban stretches, leading to delays and safety risks.
Infrastructure experts believe that once implemented, the bypass will divert through-traffic away from residential and commercial areas, reducing pressure on city roads. This is expected to result in smoother traffic flow, reduced travel time and lower pollution levels in the city.
The bypass is also anticipated to improve connectivity between different parts of Dakshina Kannada district and support the growing urban footprint of Mangaluru.
Surathkal–B.C. Road upgradation gains momentum
Another major component of the approvals is the Surathkal–B.C. Road upgradation. This stretch connects key industrial zones, educational institutions and port-related facilities and has witnessed a sharp increase in vehicular movement over the past decade.
Residents and daily commuters have repeatedly raised concerns over congestion, unsafe crossings and lack of pedestrian infrastructure along this route. The upgradation project is expected to include improved carriageways, better drainage systems, redesigned junctions and enhanced safety features.
Officials say the sanctioned DPR will now pave the way for detailed planning and execution, addressing long-standing issues on one of Mangaluru’s busiest roads.
Service roads along NH-66 from Talapady to Kundapur
The inclusion of service roads along NH-66 from Talapady to Kundapur is being viewed as a major relief for local communities. The lack of service roads has often forced local traffic to mix with high-speed highway vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
With service roads in place, local traffic such as two-wheelers, pedestrians and slow-moving vehicles will have safer access, while through-traffic can move uninterrupted on the main carriageway. Traders and residents along the highway have welcomed the move, saying it will significantly improve safety and accessibility.
Acknowledgement of central support
Captain Chowta expressed gratitude to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for facilitating action on these long-pending demands. He said the approvals reflect the Centre’s commitment to strengthening highway infrastructure and supporting regional growth.
He added that improved highways are essential for powering economic activity, supporting trade and logistics, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.
Boost to regional growth and port connectivity
The projects are expected to have a positive impact on the regional economy, particularly the port-led development of Mangaluru. The city handles cargo worth several thousand crore rupees annually, and efficient road connectivity is critical for maintaining competitiveness and attracting new investments.
Improved access roads are also likely to benefit tourism, agriculture and small businesses across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. Experts note that infrastructure development of this scale creates a ripple effect, generating employment and supporting allied sectors.
Aligned with national vision
Captain Chowta said the projects align with the broader national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, which emphasise infrastructure-led growth as a foundation for economic self-reliance and sustainable development.
By strengthening highways that act as economic lifelines, the projects are expected to contribute to long-term regional and national progress.
Conclusion
The sanction of DPRs for the Mangaluru Bypass, Surathkal–B.C. Road upgradation and NH-66 service roads represents a crucial step towards addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges in coastal Karnataka. While the focus will now shift to timely execution, stakeholders are hopeful that these projects will deliver lasting relief to commuters and unlock new growth opportunities for the region.