Kundapura: The repair work on the retaining wall of the old bridge near Tallur on National Highway 66, connecting Byndoor and Kundapura, has been dragging on for several months.

This sluggish pace of work is obstructing smooth traffic flow on the highway and leading to frequent accidents.

It has been months since the repair work on the retaining wall and footpath of the Tallur old bridge began, yet it remains incomplete. The public is now questioning how many more days are required just to finish a retaining wall and a footpath.

Frequent accidents

While the work on one side of the bridge is finished, the other side remains incomplete. Construction materials like gravel, cement, and iron rods are piled up across half the width of the bridge. As a result, only one side is available for vehicle movement, leading to recurring accidents and severe traffic congestion.

Traffic congestion

With the holiday season in full swing, many people are visiting coastal religious sites or traveling for school and college admissions. This has significantly increased vehicle density. The ongoing repairs at the Tallur bridge are causing constant traffic jams, much to the frustration of commuters.

Consistent media reports

Udayavani Sudina has consistently reported on the lack of repairs at the Tallur bridge, the damaged retaining walls and footpaths, and the delay in starting repair work on the Arate bridge.

Trouble at Arate and Tallur bridges

The ongoing repairs at the Tallur old bridge on NH 66 are a constant hurdle for motorists. Meanwhile, it has been a year and a half since the Arate bridge was closed for repairs, but actual work is yet to begin. Consequently, two-way traffic is being diverted onto the new bridge, causing immense hardship. The lack of proper lighting on both bridges has also contributed to accidents. Citizens have urged authorities to finish repairs on both bridges immediately.

No response to letters

"We have written to the concerned department to expedite the Tallur old bridge repairs for smooth traffic flow, but the contracting agency has not responded. Similarly, a letter regarding changes to the underpass near Satwadi service road has received no response. We will bring this to the notice of the District Superintendent of Police to find a solution," said Anoop Nayak, Sub-Inspector, Kundapura Traffic Police Station.