Ankola: Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner (DC) Gangubai Maankar expressed concern over the delay in the completion of the National Highway four-lane road work, which was scheduled to be completed in 2019. In a meeting held at the Ankola Tehsildar Office with the presence of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) Production Manager N. Harikrishna, she criticized the IRB officials for the accidents occurring due to improper construction, resulting in loss of lives. The DC instructed them to expedite the project completion and rejected the argument that work was hindered due to specific demands.

DC Maankar emphasized that Gram Panchayat PDOs (Panchayat Development Officers) should accompany the Tehsildar to gather accurate information, resolve inheritance rights and minor issues, and transfer funds to the beneficiaries' accounts. She set a one-week deadline for resolving issues faced by landowners affected by the four-lane road works.

During the meeting, residents of Harwaad Okkalakeri demanded the construction of an underpass and service road. Harikrishna informed that the underpass work was underway, and the construction of a service road would be considered if sufficient land was available adjacent to the highway.

However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of progress on the proposed Balale Maadangeri flyover and Nilampur flyover. The authorities did not provide a concrete response despite previous discussions and protests by the public regarding the Balale flyover. The attendees also brought up the unfulfilled promise of constructing a large circle at Neelumpur Junction in Ankola.

Additionally, the removal of a bus stop during the construction of the National Highway was raised, prompting the public to urge NHAI to promptly establish a new bus stop. The meeting saw the presence of various officials, including Assistant Commissioner Kalyani Kamble, NHAI Assistant Engineer Amar, IRB Production Manager Srinivas Rao, and other concerned officers.