Bhatkal on Edge: NH-66 Delay Sparks Public Outrage as Monsoon Looms

Officials, Tanzeem delegation inspect Bhatkal highway works amid concerns over monsoon flooding

Bhatkal: With concerns mounting over the slow progress of the National Highway four-laning project and the onset of the monsoon season, senior officials of the taluk administration on Tuesday inspected the ongoing works in Bhatkal.

The inspection was carried out by J. Mahesh, Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetty, officials from the police department, the Bhatkal City Municipal Council, representatives of IRB Infrastructure Developers Limited, and office-bearers of Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem.

The joint visit followed complaints from residents regarding inadequate stormwater drainage arrangements along the highway and fears that heavy rainfall could lead to severe waterlogging once the monsoon begins.

During the inspection, local residents cautioned that if proper drainage is not put in place, rainwater could accumulate on the highway and overflow into nearby shops and houses, causing hardship to those living and doing business along the stretch.

Residents also voiced strong dissatisfaction over the prolonged delay in the four-laning project and criticised the slow pace of work, urging the authorities and contractors to expedite the pending construction.

Officials are understood to have reviewed the drainage arrangements and discussed measures to prevent flooding and minimise inconvenience to the public during the rainy season.