Mangaluru: Commuters travelling between Mangaluru and Ulaibettu have finally received much-needed relief as vehicular traffic resumed on the newly completed Parari-Ulaibettu Bridge at Saale Melmane. The bridge was officially opened to traffic on Friday after the remaining construction work was completed on a war footing.
The bridge, constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 5 crore, had remained under construction for nearly eight months, leading to widespread inconvenience for daily commuters and residents in the surrounding areas.
Long delay sparked public criticism
The prolonged construction period had drawn criticism from local residents and road users, who repeatedly expressed concern over the slow pace of work. The delay in completing the project significantly disrupted transportation between Mangaluru and Ulaibettu, affecting office-goers, students, traders and emergency services.
Residents had urged the authorities on several occasions to expedite the construction work, citing the difficulties caused by the prolonged closure of the route.
The bridge project, which was expected to improve connectivity and facilitate smoother traffic movement, instead became a source of frustration due to repeated delays and extended construction timelines.
Temporary road caused hardship during monsoon
During the construction period, motorists were diverted through a temporary road connecting Ulaibettu and Mangaluru. The makeshift route proved to be a major challenge, especially during the monsoon season.
Continuous rainfall turned the temporary stretch muddy and slippery, making it difficult for vehicles to pass through safely. Commuters frequently complained of traffic congestion, damaged vehicles and increased travel time while using the alternative route.
Residents of nearby areas also faced difficulties as the poor condition of the temporary road affected daily activities and transportation of goods. Several motorists had called for immediate completion of the bridge to restore normal movement and avoid further inconvenience during the rainy season.
Bridge expected to improve connectivity
With the completion of the Parari-Ulaibettu Bridge, normal traffic movement has now been restored, bringing an end to months of travel difficulties. The reopening of the bridge is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Mangaluru and Ulaibettu and reduce travel time for thousands of commuters who use the route every day.
The new bridge is also expected to facilitate smoother movement of commercial vehicles and improve access to neighbouring villages and residential areas.
Local residents have welcomed the reopening of the bridge, expressing relief that the long-standing inconvenience caused by the delayed project has finally come to an end.
The completion of the Rs 5 crore infrastructure project is being seen as an important step towards improving road connectivity in the region and providing safer and more convenient travel for the public.