Pics: Nithin Pereira

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)

Udupi, May 26: Residents of Athrady Patla in Udupi district have called on the concerned authorities to expedite the completion of the road and bridge that connect the area to the main city, schools, and Bajpe airport.

The project, which began on April 15, was initially scheduled for completion by May 25. However, officials have now requested an additional month to finish the work. The incomplete stretch has caused significant inconvenience to daily commuters, students, and workers.

Laxminarayan Prabhu, a former taluk panchayat member, said, “This is a state highway that connects several cashew factories, the Morarji School, local temples, and Bajpe airport. The incomplete condition of the road has disrupted bus services, affected school-going children, and made commuting difficult. While government officials have done their part, the contractor has delayed the work. Even if rains have caused some delays, the least that could be done is to provide a temporary route for movement. Only one or two workers are currently on site. With the availability of advanced technology, this work should have been completed on time.”

Sudheer Patla, a panchayat member, also expressed concern. “Schools are reopening on May 29, and the current condition of the road poses a serious problem. The surrounding fields, usually used for farming, are now at risk. The accumulation of mud due to ongoing construction, especially during heavy rains, can ruin the farmland. The contractor’s negligence, with only 2–3 workers on site, has unnecessarily delayed the project.”

Following public pressure, local police and government officials visited the construction site and assured residents that the road and bridge would be completed by June 20. However, locals continue to demand quicker action and better planning to prevent such disruptions in the future.