Mangaluru: A traffic safety and public awareness programme was organised at the Pandeshwar and Hoige Bazaar railway crossings under the Awake Kudla initiative by Sri Ambamaheshwari Seva Trust, in collaboration with the Mangaluru City Traffic Police Department, on Sunday, with the aim of easing congestion and promoting responsible road behaviour among commuters.
The programme was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime and Traffic) K Ravi Shankar by releasing traffic barricades and unveiling railway gate timetable display boards installed at the two busy railway crossings. The initiative witnessed active participation from volunteers and members of the public, who were engaged through direct interaction and on-ground demonstrations.
Focus on traffic discipline and road safety
Members of the Awake Kudla team, supported by local volunteers, sensitised commuters about the importance of lane discipline, adherence to traffic rules and safe road practices. Special emphasis was laid on behaviour during railway gate closure hours, when congestion and impatience among motorists often lead to traffic violations and safety risks.
Commuters were urged to follow traffic regulations strictly, avoid unnecessary honking, refrain from wrong-side driving and act with patience and cooperation to ensure smoother traffic flow. Volunteers explained how small behavioural changes could significantly reduce congestion and improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike.
Public participation key to long-term solutions
Addressing the gathering, DCP K Ravi Shankar appreciated the vision and functioning of Sri Ambamaheshwari Seva Trust and the Awake Kudla initiative. He said that meaningful and lasting solutions to traffic-related issues could be achieved only with active public participation.
He appealed to citizens to cooperate with the traffic police department in dealing with daily traffic challenges. “Traffic management is not the responsibility of the police alone. Public cooperation and awareness play a crucial role in ensuring road safety and reducing congestion,” he said.
Anticipated congestion after RUB inauguration
The DCP noted that with the Mahakalipadpu Road Under Bridge (RUB) being inaugurated, traffic congestion near the Pandeshwar and Hoige Bazaar railway crossings may temporarily increase during the initial days. He urged commuters to remain patient and follow instructions issued by traffic personnel during this transition period.
He assured the public that while temporary inconveniences might occur, permanent solutions would be implemented in a phased manner. “Initial congestion is expected, but coordinated efforts will help streamline traffic over time,” he said.
Long-term infrastructure measures planned
Officials informed that several long-term measures are being planned to address persistent traffic bottlenecks. These include road widening works at Pandeshwar and other critical junctions, to be taken up in coordination with the district administration, Mangaluru City Corporation, traffic police, railways and other concerned departments.
They said inter-departmental coordination would be key to implementing sustainable infrastructure improvements that can handle increasing traffic volumes and reduce dependency on temporary traffic management arrangements.
Traffic management during transition phase
As traffic congestion is expected to rise during the initial days following the opening of the underpass, the Awake Kudla team, in coordination with the Mangaluru City Traffic Police, will actively manage traffic at the Pandeshwar and Hoige Bazaar railway crossings.
Temporary railway gate timetable boards have already been installed at both locations to help commuters plan their travel better and avoid peak congestion periods. Members of the public were requested to make use of this information and cooperate with volunteers and police personnel on duty.
Awareness signboards installed
As part of the initiative, traffic awareness signboards highlighting key safety messages and traffic rules were also installed at strategic locations near the railway crossings. These signboards aim to serve as constant reminders to motorists about safe driving practices and the importance of discipline on busy roads.
Organisers said the Awake Kudla initiative would continue its efforts through similar programmes in other parts of the city, focusing on awareness, education and community participation.
Dignitaries and organisers present
Several prominent personalities and organisers were present during the programme. These included former corporator Latheef, former mayor Diwakar, Sri Ambamaheshwari Seva Trust president Seetharama A, general secretary Umanath Kotekar, expert committee members Manjula G and Manohar Prabhu, treasurer Rama Devadiga, programme coordinator Puneeth Poojary, ward coordinator Saritha, office coordinator Neha, and other volunteers and supporters.
Conclusion
The traffic safety and awareness programme highlighted the growing need for collaborative efforts between civic bodies, police and the public to tackle urban traffic challenges. With infrastructure changes under way and traffic volumes increasing, organisers and officials reiterated that awareness, patience and cooperation from citizens would be critical in ensuring safer and smoother roads in the days ahead.