Udupi: The Mangaluru–Kundapur carriageway of the vehicular underpass on National Highway 66 at Ambalpady was opened to traffic on Sunday, bringing relief to commuters who have been facing difficulties due to damaged service roads, waterlogging and traffic congestion in the area.
The underpass carriageway was inaugurated by Kota Srinivas Poojary in the presence of Yashpal Suvarna and other local leaders. The opening is expected to improve vehicle movement along one of the busy stretches of the highway.
Authorities decided to allow traffic on the carriageway after the service road beneath the flyover developed large potholes and experienced severe waterlogging following recent rains. The deteriorating condition of the road had made travel difficult and posed safety concerns for motorists.
Relief for commuters
The damaged service road had become a major source of inconvenience for daily commuters, with motorists frequently encountering traffic bottlenecks and hazardous driving conditions. Rainwater accumulation in several sections further worsened the situation, leading to growing public complaints.
To address the immediate problem, authorities opted to temporarily open the underpass carriageway and permit one-way traffic movement. The measure is aimed at reducing congestion and ensuring smoother movement of vehicles while long-term repairs are planned.
Residents and regular highway users have welcomed the decision, stating that the arrangement will help ease travel difficulties that have persisted over the past several weeks.
Two-way traffic from Monday
Officials said the opening of the Mangaluru–Kundapur carriageway marks the first phase of traffic diversion through the underpass. The second carriageway is expected to be opened on Monday, allowing two-way traffic movement through the facility.
Once both carriageways become operational, authorities anticipate a significant improvement in traffic flow along the affected stretch of NH-66. The move is also expected to reduce pressure on the damaged service roads and minimise delays for commuters.
The temporary traffic arrangement has been implemented to ensure public convenience until permanent restoration work can be completed.
Service road repairs planned
Authorities have assured that restoration of the damaged service road will be taken up on a priority basis. Repair works are expected to commence once traffic congestion in the area is brought under control and suitable conditions are available for construction activities.
Officials noted that recent monsoon rains have contributed to the deterioration of road conditions in several locations, necessitating urgent maintenance and infrastructure improvements.
The opening of the underpass carriageway is expected to provide immediate relief while authorities work towards a long-term solution. Commuters have expressed hope that repair works will be completed quickly to prevent recurring traffic and waterlogging issues in the future.