MANGALURU
Activists are gearing up to hold protests against the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) as the heavy rains during the last few days have yet again exposed the poor quality of road works. The national highway stretch from Surathkal to BC Road has several potholes.
Potholes on the 37km NH stretch that passes through the city may turn into death trap for motorists, especially two-wheeler riders. Large potholes of about one-foot depth have developed on the national highway stretch, activists said, adding that people under the banner of Action Committee Against Surathkal Tollgate have planned to hold protests if the NHAI does not repair the stretch.
Social activist A Asif said that the NH stretches at Panambur and Surathkal that connects North and South India have been damaged with potholes. The authorities concerned should take initiatives to fill the potholes at the earliest for the convenience of motorists from various parts of the nation, he said.
Action Committee Against Surathkal Tollgate convener Muneer Katipalla said that the NH was damaged during the first few days of rain. It is difficult for motorists to recognise potholes when it is filled with water. As a result, two-wheeler riders are facing the threat of accidents. Many vehicles, including cars and trucks, have fallen into potholes and they were made to spend thousands to repair their vehicles, he said.
In a 1km stretch between Panambur and Baikampady, there are dozens of potholes. One cannot imagine the total number of potholes that are posing a threat of accidents on the 37km stretch between Surathakal and BC Road, he said, adding that protest will be the only solution for the issue.
