Mangaluru: The deteriorating condition of the main road connecting Padavinangady to Bondel St Lawrence Church, which serves as an important link to Mangaluru International Airport, has become a growing concern for residents, commuters, and school-going children. The road, riddled with large potholes, has now turned into a daily hazard for hundreds of people, sparking public anger over the negligence of civic authorities.
Road turns perilous after monsoon damage
In recent weeks, heavy rains have worsened the condition of the road, leaving behind deep and water-filled potholes. These hidden craters pose a grave risk, particularly for bus passengers who often step directly into them while alighting. Several individuals have already suffered injuries to their hands and legs due to such mishaps.
For motorists too, the pothole-ridden stretch has turned into a nightmare. The uneven surface and poor visibility during rains or at night have made vehicular movement highly unsafe. Riders of two-wheelers are especially vulnerable, with many narrowly avoiding accidents on a daily basis.
Students face mounting risks
Adding to the urgency of the issue, the stretch is also frequented by hundreds of schoolchildren every day. Several prominent educational institutions are located along this route, and parents have expressed deep concern about the dangers posed by the poor road conditions. The risk of children slipping, falling, and injuring themselves has become a constant source of anxiety.
A parent from the area remarked, “We send our children to school in fear every day. Even a small fall can cause serious injuries, and the road is completely unsafe. The authorities must act before something worse happens.”
Authorities criticised for inaction
Despite repeated complaints from residents, commuters, and school authorities, no effective steps have been taken to repair the damaged road. Elected representatives and officials have been made aware of the issue multiple times, but the absence of timely intervention has left the public frustrated.
Local residents argue that while funds are often allocated for infrastructure improvements, actual execution is delayed indefinitely. “We have approached every concerned authority, but the promises remain on paper. The road condition only worsens by the day,” said a commuter who uses the stretch daily.
Public anger on the rise
The situation has now reached a point where residents are warning of public agitation if the matter is not resolved soon. The lack of visible action has fuelled resentment among locals, many of whom feel neglected by civic bodies.
Motorists emphasised that the problem is not merely one of inconvenience but a serious safety hazard. During the monsoon, when waterlogging is common, potholes remain hidden and vehicles often swerve dangerously to avoid them. Such sudden movements heighten the risk of accidents, especially during peak traffic hours.
Urgent need for repairs
Civic experts note that poorly maintained arterial roads such as this not only endanger lives but also affect the city’s reputation, especially since this route serves as an approach to the international airport. They suggest immediate resurfacing and permanent road repairs rather than temporary patchwork, which tends to give way within weeks.
“Every year, the same stretches are repaired only superficially before the rains, and they collapse again by the next season. A long-term solution is needed, with better materials and proper drainage facilities,” said an urban planner familiar with the area.
Conclusion
The deplorable state of the road connecting Padavinangady to Bondel St Lawrence Church has turned into a serious public safety issue. With repeated appeals falling on deaf ears, citizens now warn that they may resort to protests if repairs are not initiated immediately. The onus lies on the authorities to address the situation without further delay and ensure safe passage for commuters, students, and motorists alike.