Bhatkal: With the monsoon approaching and several portions of the NH-66 four-laning project still incomplete, concerns are mounting in Bhatkal over possible flooding and waterlogging along the highway and adjoining residential areas, prompting local authorities to direct officials and contractors to speed up the pending works on priority.

Assistant Commissioner G. Mahesh, accompanied by officials from various departments, on Monday conducted an inspection of ongoing highway works at Ranginkatta, near Noor Masjid and other vulnerable stretches in the town following increasing public complaints over the slow pace of construction.

During the inspection at Ranginkatta, local residents alleged that adequate stormwater drainage arrangements had not been made along the highway stretch. They warned that heavy rain could lead to water accumulation on the road and inundation of nearby houses and shops, particularly in the Salmanabad locality adjoining the highway.

Residents said the delay in completion of the project had heightened fears that the area could turn into a “pond-like stretch” during the monsoon season.

At another location near Noor Masjid, residents pointed out that the highway formation level was being raised considerably higher than adjoining buildings and commercial establishments. Since service road works have not yet commenced in the area, locals expressed concern that rainwater could stagnate in the low-lying portions and enter nearby shops and hotels once the monsoon begins.

Residents also alleged that some old drainage channels had either been blocked or altered during the course of the highway works, diverting rainwater flow towards Mari Katta and nearby market areas. They warned that any flooding in the market locality during heavy rains could trigger public protests.

Sources said a review meeting was held at the Assistant Commissioner’s office earlier in the day in view of growing public resentment over the incomplete highway works. Officials discussed the present status of the NH-66 project within Bhatkal limits, pending works, monsoon preparedness and grievances raised by residents.

The Assistant Commissioner directed the officials concerned to immediately address public hardship arising from the ongoing highway works and ensure proper drainage arrangements for smooth flow of rainwater. He also instructed authorities to identify vulnerable points prone to water stagnation and take urgent corrective measures while ensuring uninterrupted traffic movement.

Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetti, DySP B. Girish, City Municipal Commissioner Babasaheb Mane, officials of IRB, and representatives of local social organisation Tanzeem, including Inayatullah Shabandari and Altaf Kharuri, were present during the inspection and review meeting.