Mangaluru: Two separate road accidents at Haleangadi junction in Mulki on Friday evening led to heavy traffic congestion on the national highway for more than 30 minutes, disrupting vehicular movement along the busy stretch.

The incidents occurred within a short span of time, creating confusion among motorists and leading to long queues on both sides of the highway.

In the first incident, a chemical tanker travelling from Mangaluru towards Ballari reportedly applied sudden brakes near the junction due to barricades placed on the road. A car carrying a family travelling from Kasargod to Kollur temple rammed into the rear of the tanker.

The impact caused significant damage to the front portion of the car. However, all occupants of the vehicle escaped unhurt, avoiding what could have been a serious mishap.

Shortly after the first collision, another accident occurred at the same junction. A car travelling towards Udupi was hit from behind by a tanker while attempting to take a turn near the divider.

The collision damaged the right side of the car, further obstructing traffic and adding to the already chaotic situation on the highway.

The back-to-back accidents resulted in severe traffic congestion, with vehicles lined up for long distances. Traffic queues reportedly extended up to Pavanje temple, indicating the scale of disruption caused during peak evening hours.

Apart from the highway, internal roads in Haleangadi also witnessed congestion as motorists attempted to take alternative routes to avoid the jam.

Traffic police personnel reached the spot soon after the incidents were reported and took steps to clear the damaged vehicles from the road. Their timely intervention helped restore normal traffic movement after more than 30 minutes of disruption.