SDPI blames IRB Company for unsafe roadwork after accidents on NH-66 in Bhatkal

Bhatkal: 26 August (Bhatkallys News Bureau) A series of accidents near Shamsuddin Circle on National Highway 66 has triggered anger against the IRB Company, with the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) Bhatkal unit accusing the contractor of carrying out "unscientific and unsafe" roadwork.

The first accident occurred on August 24, claiming the life of Manjappa Naik. Eyewitnesses and CCTV footage from the spot revealed that the mishap took place due to the absence of warning boards or safety measures at the construction site. Neither signboards were placed nor proper guidance provided for pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, leading to a fatal situation.

Shockingly, on the very next day, two more accidents were reported in the morning and evening hours at the same stretch between the old town connecting road and Shamsuddin Circle. While these did not result in casualties, they created fear among locals, who began questioning why multiple accidents were occurring within such a short distance.

In response, SDPI submitted a memorandum through the Assistant Commissioner of Bhatkal to the Deputy Commissioner of Uttara Kannada, stating that the negligence of the IRB Company is not only responsible for the recent death but continues to put the lives of the public at risk. The party demanded immediate intervention, stressing that without urgent corrective steps, such accidents may continue.