Residents of Thokkottu have petitioned MLC Ivan DSouza for the immediate construction of a flyover or underpass at the railway track connecting Thokkottu National Highway to Thokkottu Olapete, citing the dangers pedestrians face when crossing the tracks.
Every day, thousands, including laborers, traders, pregnant women, the disabled, students, and devotees, struggle to navigate this critical pathway. The area is home to several significant landmarks, including the historic Ullal Sayyid Madani Dargah, St Sebastian Church, Sri Vitobha Bhajana Mandir, Sri Chirumba Bhagavati Temple, Ullal Bandikotta Uliya Malaraya Temple, St Sebastian College, Madani Junior College, the historic Urdu School, and a major commercial center.
Moreover, the culturally significant Dr Ambedkar Rangamandira, known for the annual Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Mosaru Kudike celebrations, draws thousands who must cross the railway tracks, risking their lives daily.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, residents have urged authorities for prompt action. They submitted a memorandum to the Senior Divisional Engineer of Southern Railway (Palakkad division) and expressed their readiness to take legal action if the issue is not addressed.
During the petition submission, key figures from the Ullal Taluk Amateur Kabaddi Association, including general secretary Cyril Robert D’Souza, Piyush Monteiro, Alwyn D’Souza, Sajid Ullal, and Neri D’Souza, were present to support the cause.