In a move to ease chronic congestion at Mangaluru’s Nanthoor Junction, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has completed the construction of three new free left-turn lanes. These additions aim to offer immediate relief to one of the city’s busiest intersections.
The upgrade was completed on Saturday, June 7. Nanthoor is a critical junction where three key roads meet: the Kochi-Panvel Highway (NH 66), the Mangaluru-Bengaluru Highway (NH 75), and the Mangaluru-Mercara Trunk Road from Kadri. A fourth corner, from Kadri Mallikatte towards Surathkal, already had a free left-turn lane.
With delays in the long-planned grade separator project, MP Capt Brijesh Chowta had requested temporary traffic solutions. Taking advantage of a dry spell between rains, NHAI initiated and wrapped up earthwork and paving within a week, using bituminous concrete for smooth vehicle movement.
The new setup enables motorists from Surathkal (NH 66) to turn left towards B C Road (NH 75) without halting. Drivers from B C Road can now easily head to Pumpwell, while those arriving from Pumpwell can turn left towards Kadri Mallikatte.
The project was executed by contractor M/s Mugrodi Constructions, and authorities anticipate noticeable traffic flow improvements during rush hours.
Simultaneously, drainage work has begun along NH 66 and NH 75 as groundwork for the future grade separator. Officials say drain construction can proceed through the monsoon and will be followed by service road development, paving the way for safe excavation.
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