Bhatkal: Even as residents of Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district continue to grapple with delays in the ongoing four-laning work on NH 66, fresh concerns have now emerged from Sirsi, where the Sirsi–Haveri national highway has deteriorated into a muddy stretch, severely affecting vehicular movement.

While preparatory work for asphalting is underway, unseasonal rainfall over the past two days has turned large portions of the highway into slush, making commuting extremely difficult. The condition of the road has worsened to the extent that travel has become hazardous for motorists.

Visuals of the damaged stretch, captured using a drone camera, have gone viral on social media. Agitated citizens have tagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi in posts, launching an online campaign highlighting the alleged poor quality of road work.

Deep potholes have formed along the stretch, filled with rainwater and mud, posing serious risks to commuters. Two-wheeler riders, in particular, are being forced to navigate the road under dangerous conditions.

Near Sannakeri, ongoing excavation of a mud embankment has further worsened the situation. During rains, the entire stretch becomes extremely slippery, prompting several vehicles to take alternative routes.

Movement of KSRTC buses and goods carriers has also been delayed by several hours due to the slushy conditions.

Despite the road-widening work in progress, locals allege that the lack of proper maintenance has led to the current situation, especially during rains. Although authorities have assured that the work will be expedited, residents remain apprehensive about whether the road will be made motorable before the onset of the monsoon.