Transforming Journeys: NHAI’s Vision for a Safer, Smoother Surathkal-Kundapura NH 66 Stretch Improvement
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has begun work on constructing service roads along the Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66, responding to public outcry and ongoing safety concerns. This initiative covers the Koteshwara area in Kundapura taluk, Udupi district, Karnataka. Member of Parliament for Udupi-Chikkamagaluru, Kota Srinivas Poojary, has been advocating for improvements on this vital stretch of highway, which has seen a troubling increase in accidents and poses significant challenges for both motorists and pedestrians.
The NHAI has commissioned a detailed project report (DPR) aimed at enhancing a 76-km segment of the highway between Surathkal and Kundapura. In correspondence dated November 25, NHAI Karnataka Regional Officer V.P. Brahmankar informed Poojary that two consultancy firms, Dhruv Consultancy Service Private Limited and Mark Civil Engineering Services Private Limited, have been tasked with this critical assessment. Their role includes proposing long-term solutions for key junctions, notably at Kota, Brahmavara, Padubidri, and Mulki.
Poojary highlighted the urgency of addressing numerous traffic incidents along the route, particularly in hotspots like Mulki, Padubidri, Brahmavara, Kota Moorkai, Thekkatte, and Koteshwara. With the initiation of the DPR, he expressed optimism that construction and enhancement works would commence soon, aiming to relieve the hardships experienced by local residents and travelers alike.
Concerns about the adequacy of NHAI’s planning have been voiced by road users who criticized the Authority’s foresight in widening the highway into four lanes from Talapady in Dakshina Kannada to Kundapura. A retired PWD engineer noted that the NHAI failed to account for anticipated traffic congestion and pedestrian safety at several key intersections, including K.C. Road, Beeri, Pavanje, and several others throughout the stretch.
Critics have pointed out that the project proceeded without implementing sufficient vehicular overpasses (VoPs) or underpasses (VuPs), which has only intensified existing issues. In response to mounting public pressure and demands from government representatives, the NHAI is now slowly integrating these essential features at critical locations, including Kallianapura-Santhekatte, Ambalapady, and Katpady.
The absence of service roads has particularly compounded problems, given that highway flanks in these coastal districts are transitioning into semi-urban zones. Stakeholders believe that constructing dedicated service roads would significantly improve safety and accessibility for local communities.
As the NHAI continues this initiative, it remains crucial for the authority to take a proactive stance in planning for future demands. The integration of comprehensive infrastructure improvements will not only serve to enhance road safety but also support the growing urbanization in the region. The community eagerly anticipates the positive impacts of these developments, hopeful that they will mitigate current difficulties and foster safer traveling conditions on this important highway.
In the ever-evolving landscape of road transport, the commitment to addressing these concerns signals a positive shift towards safer and more effective infrastructure for all road users in Karnataka’s coastal region.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/nhai-to-prepare-dpr-for-overall-improvement-of-surathkal-kundapura-nh-66-stretch/article70356884.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-12-04 14:41:00
