Safer Rides Ahead: NHAI Invests ₹72 Cr in Kundapur-Talapady NH66

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will undertake the construction of over 13 kilometers of service roads and six foot overbridges (FoBs) along National Highway 66 between Kundapur and Talapady in Karnataka. This ₹72 crore initiative is aimed at improving road safety and pedestrian access across the Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, in response to growing concerns over frequent accidents and inadequate infrastructure.

Construction is scheduled to commence after the monsoon season. Key service road stretches will be developed in the following locations:

Koteshwara – 0.83 km, Beejadi–Thekkatte – 3.5 km, Saligrama – 1.02 km, Ambagilu – 1.0 km, Balaipade–Udyavara – 1.97 km, Bada Yermal – 2.0 km, Hejamady – 0.75 km, Mulky – 0.5 km, Padupanambur – 0.31 km, Haleyangadi – 0.55 km, Beeri – 0.7 km

In addition, six new foot overbridges will be constructed at the following locations to enhance pedestrian safety:

Near Mahesh Hospital (Brahmavar), Nittur (Udupi), Thenka Yermal, Near Bappanadu Temple (Mulky), Mukka Junction, Yekkur, near Fisheries College (Mangaluru)

An extra service road will also be built in Brahmavar, connecting Mahesh Hospital and Shamli Lawn.

These safety measures follow recommendations from local authorities and law enforcement. NHAI officials have confirmed that pedestrian and vehicular safety infrastructure will be prioritized before the commencement of broader development activities.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.