Mangaluru
MLA U Rajesh Naik has introduced a free mini bus service for the convenience of hundreds of people, especially devotees to Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple, on the Addoor Bridge, where heavy vehicles, including buses, are banned.
Deputy Commissioner MP Mullai Muhilan had imposed a ban on the movement of heavy vehicles temporarily on the bridge at Addoor on the Surathkal-Kabaka State Highway 101 on August 16.
Experts had found the bridge, which was sanctioned in 1965, not safe for the movement of heavy vehicles. When people approached him, the MLA responded quickly by introducing a free mini bus service without waiting for government sanctions.
The MLA said that students and devotees visiting Polali temple were facing inconvenience due to the ban on heavy vehicles on the bridge. Hence, the MLA said that he has decided to provide free vehicle service on his own.
He said that a large number of commuters depend on buses that were plying on the bridge across the Phalguni River at Addoor. For the convenience of people, he has purchased a mini bus and commenced free service.
The service of mini bus will be available for devotees and the public, till the bridge is declared open for heavy vehicles after repair, he said.
Chandrashekhar Shetty, a resident, said that MLA has arranged the transport facility after understanding the problems of people.
Within 24 hours after we made a request, the MLA has arranged a mini bus. Students, devotees, and those who commute to their workplaces may use the service between Addoor and Polali, he added.
Deputy Commissioner MP Mullai Muhilan said that the PWD will bring a bridge strength inspection machine. The vehicle will check the strength and stability of the bridge, he said.
