The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the construction of an underpass at Nanthoor Junction in Mangaluru, starting with the expansion of flanks on the Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66 to build service roads for traffic diversion. This development follows instructions from Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, who recognized the urgent need to address the traffic congestion between Pumpwell Circle and KPT Junction. On September 8, 2024, the NHAI began leveling the land around Nanthoor Junction and trimming nearby hillocks to facilitate the project. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime and Traffic) B.P. Dinesh Kumar emphasized the necessity of establishing proper service roads before implementing traffic diversions.
The Forest Department has approved the felling of 99 trees on private land for the construction. As part of the project, the underpass will descend to a depth of 5.5 meters, allowing uninterrupted traffic flow on NH 66 between Pumpwell and KPT Junction. Meanwhile, an overpass will connect KMC Mercara Trunk Road and Bikarnakatte, streamlining vehicle movement across multiple routes. The NHAI also plans to construct a grade separator at KPT Junction. Funding for these ventures has been sourced from the Union Road Transport Ministry, with ₹51 crore allocated for Nanthoor and ₹22 crore for KPT. Upon completion, the underpass will feature 10.2-meter-wide carriageways for a stretch of approximately 2.4 km, along with 8-meter-wide service roads on both sides.
Published on September 10, 2024.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/work-on-service-roads-for-construction-of-nanthoor-junction-underpass-begins-in-mangaluru/article68625136.ece
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