Residents of Mangaluru can finally breathe a sigh of relief as a major traffic bottleneck is set to be cleared. With the construction of twin Railway Underbridges (RUBs) at Mahakalipadpu now completed, the Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL) is actively planning to reopen a crucial section of the four-lane road to the city, which has remained shut for more than four years.
Long-Awaited Opening to Benefit Daily Commuters
The decision to allow at least one-way traffic is poised to benefit hundreds of daily commuters entering Mangaluru city from the Ullal, Mudipu, and Kerala directions. This move is expected to significantly reduce the chronic traffic congestion currently plaguing the Pumpwell road stretch, which has been the sole alternative route. Arun Prabha K.S., the General Manager (Technical) at MSCL, confirmed that the road can be opened at any time, though a final nod from the police department is awaited.
Project Details and Current Status
Prabha elaborated on the current status, stating, "The work is completed on one stretch of the road at Mahakalipadpu. We have plans to open two lanes on one side and one lane on the other stretch to allow vehicular movement between Jappinamogaru and the city." He noted that work on a final 20-meter stretch on one side remains, but the road could be opened within a day or two of receiving necessary clearances.
The Rs 50 crore four-lane twin RUB project was officially initiated on March 29, 2021. However, the road closure from Jeppu to Jappinamogaru to facilitate this work had sparked a series of protests by various political parties and organisations, all urging authorities to expedite the completion.
Immediate Impact on City Traffic and Infrastructure
The reopening will have an immediate and positive cascading effect on Mangaluru's infrastructure. Currently, all vehicles from the southern approaches are forced to take the Pumpwell-Karavali Junction road, a stretch notorious for its poor condition and numerous potholes. Once traffic diverts to the new RUBs, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) will finally be able to commence much-needed development work on the battered Pumpwell-Karavali Junction road.
This strategic opening marks a critical step in resolving a long-standing civic issue, promising smoother commutes and heralding a new phase of urban mobility for the port city. The completion of this project underscores a significant achievement for the Mangaluru Smart City Limited in its mission to upgrade city infrastructure.
