Mangaluru: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has approved the transfer of the Surathkal–Nanthoor–BC Road port connectivity stretch—currently under the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA)—to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The decision marks a major breakthrough for Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta, whose persistent efforts have finally fulfilled a long-standing demand to resolve chronic maintenance issues along one of the region’s busiest highway corridors.

Major relief for commuters and freight movement

The Surathkal–Nanthoor–BC Road stretch has long been considered one of the most crucial road corridors connecting the New Mangalore Port with various inland transport networks. Its deteriorating condition had caused severe inconvenience to heavy goods carriers, local industries, and thousands of daily commuters. Despite being a vital freight route, the road was under the National Highways Logistics Management Ltd (NHLML), a special purpose vehicle created to manage port-related freight movement.

However, the absence of a dedicated maintenance mechanism, shortage of funds, and lack of periodic repair interventions led to the rapid deterioration of the corridor. The potholed and uneven surface frequently resulted in traffic snarls, road accidents, and delays in freight transit. Addressing this long-standing concern has been one of MP Brijesh Chowta’s major priorities since taking office.

MP Brijesh Chowta’s year-long push

The approval comes after more than a year of sustained efforts by Chowta. On July 23, 2024, he met Joint Secretary Vinay Kumar at MoRTH and raised crucial concerns such as:

  • increasing heavy freight movement
  • absence of service roads
  • accident-prone patches
  • lack of proper drainage systems
  • major delays due to poor highway conditions

Following this meeting, MoRTH sanctioned ₹28.58 crore for immediate improvement works along the stretch. This initial success strengthened the push for a complete transfer of the corridor to NHAI, which has a dedicated structure, funding capacity, and technical expertise to maintain national highways.

Chowta also met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on multiple occasions, pressing the need for the transfer. On June 26, he formally submitted a request to bring the Surathkal–Mangaluru–BC Road corridor under NHAI control. During the recent monsoon session, he once again briefed the minister on how shifting the highway from NHLML to NHAI would significantly strengthen freight movement, support port-led growth, and enhance regional connectivity in coastal Karnataka.

MoRTH orders transfer; NHAI to prepare DPR

The latest directive from MoRTH officially orders NHAI to take over the Surathkal–BC Road port connectivity stretch. As part of the transfer process, NHAI has been instructed to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) as early as possible. The DPR will outline plans for upgrading the entire corridor, fortifying accident-prone locations, developing service roads where needed, and implementing essential road safety measures.

The Ministry has also emphasised the need to address long-pending infrastructural gaps that hinder smooth vehicular movement. Among these are strengthening the road surface, improving drainage, resolving bottlenecks, enhancing signage, and ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow for both freight and general commuters.

A historic decision for Dakshina Kannada

Responding to the Ministry’s approval, MP Brijesh Chowta expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and all officials involved in facilitating the transfer. He described the decision as “historic” for Dakshina Kannada, stating that it would significantly boost the district’s economic activities by enhancing logistical efficiency around New Mangalore Port.

Chowta noted that this transfer was a long-pending demand from various stakeholders, including industry bodies, transporters, and local communities. Since assuming office, he said, he had made it a top priority due to its direct impact on the region’s economic ecosystem. According to him, the highway upgrade will benefit daily commuters, improve logistics for industries, and ensure smoother freight movement from the port to key destinations across the state.

Conclusion

The transfer of the Surathkal–Nanthoor–BC Road stretch from NHLML to NHAI marks a transformative step for coastal Karnataka. With NHAI now preparing to undertake comprehensive upgrades, the region is set to receive long-awaited improvements that will ease traffic, reduce accidents, and strengthen port-led development. The decision positions Dakshina Kannada for better connectivity, increased economic activity, and higher efficiency in freight movement in the years ahead.