Pics: Adithya Aithal

Daijiworld Media Network – Brahmavar

Brahmavar, Feb 26: Constructed following strong public demand after a tragic road accident claimed the life of a student, the newly built service road in Brahmavar is now drawing criticism for being misused as a parking area instead of serving its intended purpose.

A couple of months ago, citizens of Brahmavar united to demand urgent road safety measures after repeated accidents on the busy highway stretch. Protesters had called for a permanent solution in the form of a flyover covering key junctions, including Akashvani Junction, Brahmavar Bus Stand Junction, and SMS College Junction, considering Brahmavar’s rapid growth and its importance as a major connecting point to other state highways.

However, due to limited political influence, no major development towards constructing a flyover has materialised so far.

As a temporary relief measure, with the intervention of the Udupi–Chikkamagaluru MP and the initiative of the district administration, approval was granted to construct and extend service roads on both sides of the highway. Despite delays and challenges during execution, the service road was eventually completed.

Locals now point out that the service road lacks proper entry and exit points, and there has been little public awareness regarding its correct usage. Moreover, certain stretches remain unclear at both the beginning and ending points, adding to confusion among motorists.

The current situation has reportedly deviated from the original objective. One side of the newly constructed service road is now largely occupied by vehicles parked by customers and visitors to nearby establishments. During peak hours, heavy parking significantly narrows the usable width of the road.

Residents question the purpose of the service road if it cannot be effectively utilised for smooth vehicular movement.

The stretch had earlier witnessed several fatal and non-fatal accidents involving students and daily commuters, triggering widespread protests demanding immediate safety measures. Initially, after the service road was opened, commuters experienced smoother and relatively safer traffic movement.

However, indiscriminate parking on both sides has once again reduced the effective carriage width, forcing vehicles to navigate through narrow gaps. This has raised renewed concerns about road safety.

Pedestrians, including students and patients visiting nearby hospitals, are reportedly facing difficulties while walking along the stretch. With much of the service road occupied by parked vehicles, many are compelled to walk dangerously close to the main highway.

Local residents are urging the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. They have called for strict regulation of parking along the service road, installation of clear ‘No Parking’ signage, regular monitoring and enforcement by traffic authorities, and proper marking of entry and exit points.

With safety once again becoming a concern on this accident-prone stretch, citizens hope for swift intervention to restore the service road to its intended purpose and prevent further tragedies.