Udupi: Work on Widening NH 66 Resumes in Full Swing

Suvarna Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (RD/CN)

Udupi, Sep 28: The four-lane road work on the national highway, which was hindered by incessant rains, picked momentum a few days ago. Construction workers who were helpless due to the persistent rains are gearing up for strenuous and long hours of work. The work resumed on the Suratkal–Kundapur stretch of the NH 66 which was stalled during the monsoon.

Trees dotting the NH 66 are being cleared for the purpose while the relocation of electric poles is yet to be done. Aphalting has been completed in Katpady and Kota on NH 66.

Underpass at Brahmavar

The national highway authority originally planned to construct an underpass in front of Ruchira Complex, Brahmavar, near here. Accordingly, it has laid the foundation for pillars. However, it seems the original plan has been changed to construct 200 meters beside Brahmavar community health centre. The pillars that were recently erected near Ruchira Complex have been demolished using earthmovers by the contractor Navyug Construction Company, which has swiftly undertaken road work on government land, while the land acquisition process along a few stretches of highway has hindered its construction work.

Separate underpass and bridge

Work is in progress to construct an underpass and a bridge. Over 600 workmen are based in labour camps at Yadtady and Padubidri to complete the asphalting on NH 66 except construction of bridge and underpass ahead of the monsoon in 2012.

Shortage of crushed granite

The granite deposits located at Miyar in Nalkoor gram panchayat have been supplying the entire stock required for four-lane works of the 75 km Kundapur–Suratkal stretch on NH 66. However, due to the stay order issued by the High Court banning the crushers, the shortage of crushed granite is likely to impede the road work. The existing stock of crushed granite would be sufficient for a month say the project co-ordinators.