Udupi: The poor condition of the Ambalpady stretch of the National Highway has once again come under public scrutiny following the recent visit of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, with social media users highlighting the deteriorating state of the road and ongoing traffic congestion in the area.
The discussion gained momentum after videos and photographs circulating online appeared to show the Chief Minister’s convoy moving slowly through the Ambalpady corridor, prompting renewed debate about the condition of one of the busiest road stretches connecting Udupi and Mangaluru.
Potholes and waterlogging pose risks
Residents and regular commuters have raised concerns over the increasing number of potholes along the Ambalpady stretch, many of which are filled with rainwater following recent showers.
Motorists say waterlogged potholes make it difficult to assess the extent of road damage, creating dangerous conditions for drivers and riders. Two-wheeler users are considered particularly vulnerable, as hidden potholes can lead to sudden loss of balance and accidents.
Commuters have repeatedly complained that the damaged road surface has become a major safety hazard, especially during periods of heavy rain when visibility of road defects is significantly reduced.
Loose gravel adds to road safety concerns
Apart from potholes, road users have pointed to loose stones and gravel scattered across several portions of the highway.
According to residents, these loose materials increase the risk of skidding and loss of control, particularly for motorcycles and scooters. Several motorists have reportedly encountered difficulties while navigating the damaged sections of the road.
The problem is further compounded by heavy traffic movement throughout the day, making it challenging for drivers to manoeuvre safely around damaged areas.
Traffic congestion remains a major issue
The Ambalpady corridor serves as a crucial link between Udupi and Mangaluru and witnesses substantial traffic volumes daily.
Despite the deployment of traffic police personnel to regulate vehicle movement, commuters say congestion remains a persistent issue, particularly during peak morning and evening hours. Long queues of vehicles are frequently reported, resulting in delays and inconvenience for daily travellers.
Residents argue that poor road conditions combined with increasing traffic density have significantly affected the overall commuting experience along the stretch.
Flyover project yet to deliver full relief
Many residents had hoped that the Ambalpady flyover project would provide a long-term solution to traffic congestion in the region.
While the flyover is currently in the final stages of construction, concerns have emerged regarding its utilisation even before full commissioning. Motorists have alleged that portions of the structure are being used as informal parking spaces for logistics vehicles and local transport operators.
According to commuters, such unauthorised parking activities could undermine the intended benefits of the flyover by creating avoidable bottlenecks and reducing traffic flow efficiency.
They have urged authorities to ensure that the completed infrastructure is utilised exclusively for its intended purpose once operational.
Social media discussion reignites issue
The issue gained renewed attention following Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s visit to Udupi, with several social media users linking the convoy’s reduced speed to the poor condition of the highway.
While no official statement has attributed the convoy’s speed to road conditions, online discussions have brought fresh focus to longstanding complaints regarding potholes, waterlogging and traffic congestion at Ambalpady.
The renewed attention has amplified public calls for immediate remedial measures.
Residents seek urgent action
Local residents and commuters have appealed to the authorities to take swift action to address the worsening road condition.
They have urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the district administration to undertake immediate pothole repairs, remove loose gravel and improve drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Residents have also demanded strict action against unauthorised parking on the flyover and called for the speedy completion and commissioning of the project to ensure smoother traffic movement.
Conclusion
The condition of the Ambalpady National Highway stretch has once again emerged as a major public concern, with potholes, waterlogging and congestion continuing to affect thousands of commuters. As social media attention brings the issue back into focus, residents are hoping authorities will take prompt corrective measures to improve road safety and ease traffic flow in the region.