Udupi: A damaged stretch of road near RSB Circle in Manipal has emerged as a major safety concern for motorists and commuters after a portion of the road, allegedly excavated for certain works, was left in a hazardous condition. Local residents have raised concerns over the absence of adequate safety measures and warned that the condition of the road has already led to accidents and injuries.
Residents allege that the road was dug up for ongoing works but was not restored properly after completion, leaving a dangerous section on a busy route frequently used by motorists.
Residents allege lack of safety precautions
According to local residents, the excavation work was carried out without installing proper warning signs or safety indicators around the site.
They claimed that caution boards, reflective markers and barricades were either not placed or were inadequate to alert commuters approaching the damaged stretch.
The absence of precautionary measures reportedly created difficulties for motorists, especially those unfamiliar with the area.
Residents further alleged that even after the completion of the work, authorities or the agencies concerned failed to restore the road surface to its original condition.
As a result, commuters have been forced to navigate through an uneven and potentially dangerous section of the road.
Poor lighting increases accident risk
Residents also pointed out that the area suffers from inadequate street lighting, making the damaged portion of the road difficult to notice during night hours.
According to them, the lack of proper illumination has increased the danger for motorists travelling through the area after dark.
Sources said several riders travelling at normal or higher speeds reportedly lost control of their vehicles after suddenly encountering the dug-up section.
The unexpected obstruction is said to have resulted in separate accidents involving two-wheelers and other vehicles.
Some of the injured riders reportedly sustained serious injuries after falling from their vehicles and are currently receiving treatment at hospitals.
The exact number of injured persons and details regarding their condition have not been officially confirmed.
Residents step in to prevent further mishaps
Concerned over the growing threat to public safety, local residents took temporary measures to reduce the risk of further accidents.
People from the locality reportedly filled the deep pit temporarily and placed barricades around the damaged area to warn approaching motorists.
Residents said they decided to take immediate action after witnessing repeated incidents and fearing that a more serious accident could occur if the issue remained unattended.
The temporary measures, however, are only seen as an immediate response and not a permanent solution.
Demand for immediate action
Residents have urged the authorities concerned to conduct an inspection of the site and identify the agency or individuals responsible for carrying out the digging work.
They have also demanded that the damaged road be restored properly at the earliest and that adequate safety measures be implemented to prevent similar incidents in future.
The issue has once again highlighted concerns over road maintenance practices and the importance of ensuring public safety during infrastructure and utility-related works.
With traffic movement continuing along the route, residents believe immediate intervention is necessary to avoid further accidents and ensure safer travel for commuters.