Udupi: The newly completed Santhekatte underpass continues to face a major civic issue, with the recently installed streetlights yet to become operational, leaving the underpass and adjoining service roads in darkness after sunset.
The absence of street lighting has raised concerns among residents and regular commuters, who say poor visibility is affecting road safety and making it difficult for pedestrians and motorists to use the stretch at night.
Darkness raises safety concerns
Despite the completion of the long-awaited underpass, commuters have pointed out that the lack of functioning streetlights has reduced visibility across the area.
Residents said pedestrians are finding it difficult to walk through the underpass and adjoining service roads after dark. The problem has become more pronounced during the ongoing monsoon, when waterlogging on the roads is difficult to detect in the absence of adequate lighting.
Motorists have also expressed concern, stating that driving through the stretch at night has become challenging, particularly during heavy rain, as poor visibility increases the risk of accidents.
Commuters seek immediate action
Local residents said that while the infrastructure project has been completed, essential civic amenities such as operational streetlights are yet to be provided.
They have urged the concerned authorities to switch on the streetlights without further delay and ensure their regular maintenance so that the underpass remains safe for all road users.
According to commuters, proper illumination is essential not only for improving visibility but also for enhancing the safety of pedestrians, two-wheeler riders and motorists using the busy stretch.
Demand for early resolution
The issue has become a matter of concern for daily commuters, many of whom use the Santhekatte underpass every day.
Residents hope the authorities will address the problem at the earliest by making the streetlights functional and ensuring that the newly developed infrastructure is fully equipped to serve the public safely.
With the monsoon season underway, commuters believe timely action will help prevent accidents and improve convenience for thousands of people using the underpass each day.