Udupi: A dangerous road stretch connecting Pulimaru Junction, Pragathi Nagar and the old Government Bus Stand in Shiribidu under the Udupi City Municipal Council limits has become a major safety concern for commuters, with residents warning that the area could witness a serious tragedy if immediate corrective measures are not taken.
The narrow stretch runs dangerously close to an open rainwater drain, while the absence of protective barricades and proper safety infrastructure has increased the risk of accidents for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Residents said commuters are forced to travel cautiously along the stretch as even a slight loss of control could cause vehicles to plunge into the adjoining drain.
Open drain and narrow road create danger
Local residents pointed out that the road has become increasingly hazardous due to the combination of heavy traffic movement, poor visibility and inadequate safety arrangements.
According to residents, motorists travelling through the area often struggle to navigate the narrow section, especially when larger vehicles pass through simultaneously.
The danger becomes more severe during rainy weather when water accumulates near the roadside and visibility is reduced significantly.
Pedestrians using the route are also exposed to considerable risk because there are no protective barriers separating the walking area from the open drain.
Residents alleged that several minor mishaps and fall incidents have already occurred on the stretch in the past, though no major casualties have been reported so far.
However, locals fear that continued neglect of the issue could eventually lead to a fatal accident.
Major route used by students and workers
The road serves as one of the nearest access routes into Udupi city and witnesses heavy movement of vehicles and pedestrians throughout the day.
Migrant workers, school and college students, daily wage labourers, senior citizens and office-goers regularly depend on the road for commuting.
Residents said the heavy usage of the route makes the absence of basic safety infrastructure even more concerning.
The area reportedly experiences congestion during peak morning and evening hours, increasing the possibility of accidents when vehicles attempt to manoeuvre through the narrow section.
Locals stressed that immediate intervention is necessary before a major tragedy occurs.
Poor street lighting worsens situation
Another major issue affecting the stretch is the lack of proper street lighting facilities.
Residents said the road remains poorly illuminated during nighttime, making it difficult for commuters to identify the edges of the road and the adjoining drain.
The absence of adequate lighting has reportedly made the route particularly dangerous for two-wheeler riders and pedestrians after dark.
During heavy rainfall, visibility becomes even poorer, increasing the chances of vehicles skidding or accidentally entering the drain.
Despite the road being frequently used by the public, residents said authorities have not yet installed essential safety measures such as barricades, parapet walls, warning signs or sufficient streetlights.
Citizens’ committee urges immediate action
Activists from the Udupi District Citizens’ Committee visited the location and urged authorities to take urgent steps to address the issue.
Committee activists Nityananda Volakadu and Taranath Mesta Shiroor inspected the area and appealed to the district administration and municipal authorities to immediately assess the situation.
They demanded installation of protective barricades along the open drain, widening of the narrow road stretch wherever feasible and improvement of lighting infrastructure in the area.
The activists also called for the installation of warning signs and additional safety measures to ensure smooth and secure movement for the public.
Residents hope the authorities will respond swiftly to the growing concerns and undertake the necessary infrastructure improvements before the monsoon season intensifies.