Mangaluru: In a decisive move, Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta has directed officials from the NHAI, police, and revenue departments to take strict action against unauthorised street vendors and petty shops operating along national highways in the district.
At the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting held at Zilla Panchayat’s Nethravathi Hall, the MP expressed concern over the rapid rise of encroachments along the highways. He pointed out that vehicles halting near these makeshift shops often lead to accidents, and footpaths are being obstructed, posing risks especially to schoolchildren.
He instructed NHAI Project Director Abdulla Javed Azmi to submit a comprehensive report on right-of-way encroachments to the police. SP Dr Arun K assured that a joint operation will be launched following discussions with the city police chief.
DISHA members Rajiv Shetty and Bharath Kumar raised concerns about illegal eateries and vendors in Farangipete, Surathkal, and Panambur, noting poor hygiene and waste dumping. DC Darshan H V recommended involving the revenue department in the upcoming survey.
Azmi also updated on the NH 75 four-laning work—14.74 km is complete from Addahole to Periyashanthi, with a 400-metre litigation stretch pending. Slope-stabilisation is underway at Kethikkal, following expert recommendations post-landslide.
Meanwhile, 60% of the Savanoor–Bikarnakatte stretch is completed, and land acquisition is 95% done, barring a school land issue. MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik confirmed progress on relocating Koragajje Katte at Vamanjoor.