Shivamogga : The Agumbe Ghat stretch on National Highway 169A, connecting Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district with Malpe in Udupi, has become increasingly dangerous for motorists during the ongoing monsoon. Dense fog, damaged road infrastructure and the threat of landslides are posing serious risks to commuters using the scenic but challenging route.

With visibility dropping drastically due to sudden fog, drivers often rely only on parking lights while navigating the narrow ghat roads. The descent from Agumbe towards the plains is considered particularly hazardous, especially for cars and two-wheelers, as several sharp bends lack adequate crash barriers.

Missing safety features raise concern

Commuters have expressed concern over the absence of protective barriers at critical stretches, faded lane markings and damaged reflective road studs. A nearly two-kilometre stretch at the top of the ghat reportedly lacks reflective studs altogether, making night and foggy driving even more difficult.

The highway also remains vulnerable to falling trees and landslides during heavy rain, often leading to traffic disruptions and long delays while debris is cleared.

Officials have also noted fresh soil movement near the sixth hairpin bend, following a major landslide at the 11th hairpin curve in 2022. Deep cracks have reportedly developed along sections of the road due to poor drainage and heavy vehicle movement.

Road improvement plans under consideration

National Highways officials said a ₹14 crore proposal has been submitted to improve the route, including jungle clearance and installation of crash barriers wherever feasible.

However, Public Works Department (PWD) officials said installing barriers at the sixth hairpin bend is currently not possible without widening the road, as larger vehicles such as buses require additional turning space to negotiate the curve safely.

PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi recently inspected the ghat from both the Shivamogga and Udupi sides. He said the department is working with the Forest Department to secure approvals for a comprehensive road-widening project and is also examining the feasibility of a tunnel.

While local residents and transport operators have welcomed efforts to improve safety, environmental groups have raised concerns over the ecological impact of large-scale construction in the fragile Western Ghats.