NRIs express concern over poor highway work in Bhatkal; Raise issues before Speaker U.T. Khader

Bhatkal: Non-resident Indians (NRIs) from Bhatkal living in Dubai and across the UAE have expressed their dissatisfaction over the ongoing National Highway expansion work in Bhatkal, alleging poor quality, incomplete construction, and the absence of proper service roads.

During Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader’s visit to Dubai, representatives of Bhatkal-based associations met him and highlighted the serious problems faced by local residents due to the poorly executed four-lane highway project. They urged him to take urgent steps to prevent frequent road accidents caused by the incomplete work.

The meeting was chaired by Bhatkal Muslim Jamaat Dubai President Shaharyar Khateeb. Those present included Bhatkal Majlis-e-Islah-o-Tanzeem Vice President and Bhatkal Muslim Khaleej Council General Secretary Ateequr Rahman Muniri, BMJD General Secretary Jailani Mohtesham, and several other community members.

Speaking at the gathering, members pointed out that although the National Highway project has been ongoing for nearly 12 years, it still remains unfinished. They said that in many parts, the work has been left incomplete midway, leading to a rise in accidents.

They cautioned that the ongoing Mangaluru–Goa National Highway expansion through Bhatkal town without service roads will only increase the danger. Due to the absence of service roads, locals are forced to use the main carriageway even for daily travel, putting lives at risk.

Ateequr Rahman Muneeri also urged the Speaker to consider establishing a super-specialty hospital in Bhatkal or, at the very least, upgrading the government hospital with a trauma centre, blood bank, and dialysis unit.

Responding to the concerns, U.T. Khader assured the delegation that all issues would be taken seriously. He said the representatives would be invited to Bengaluru for a follow-up meeting with concerned officials and ministers to work out a practical solution.

The meeting was attended by Muhammad Gaus Khalifa, Abu Muhammad Mukhtasar, Sabir, Muzzaffar, Taha Muallim, Yasir Kasimji, Qamar Sada, and other prominent members from various UAE-based Bhatkal associations