Bhatkal: Tension prevailed this morning in Murdeshwar, near the Basti-Uttara Koppa road, when the National Highway construction company, IRB Infrastructure Developers, brought machinery to resume work on the highway. However, a large number of locals gathered at the site and strongly opposed the construction, demanding that an underpass be built at the location where the National Highway obstructs the connecting road between Basti and Uttara Koppa. They declared that they would not allow the construction to proceed under any circumstances until their demand was met.
The demand for an underpass at this spot has been ongoing for a long time, causing the highway work to remain stalled. Despite this, IRB attempted to restart construction today under police protection. However, even the presence of the police did not deter the locals, who successfully halted the work.
The protesters emphasized that the underpass is critical for the safety and convenience of people traveling between Basti and Uttara Koppa. They explained that the road serves nearly 30 villages, where most residents are farmers. The route is also vital for schoolchildren commuting to Kaikini School. Without an underpass, crossing the busy National Highway poses a serious safety risk. Additionally, the road leads to the cremation ground, forcing people to cross the highway during funeral processions, further underscoring the need for an underpass.
Upon receiving the news, Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner Dr. Naiana rushed to the protest site and appealed to the protesters for cooperation. However, the demonstrators stood firm, reiterating that they would not permit construction until an underpass is built.
IRB Project Director Shiv Kumar, who was also present, assured the locals that a request for the underpass had already been submitted to the government and that work would begin upon receiving approval. He proposed temporary repairs to the road, but the protesters rejected the suggestion outright. Over 100 people participated in the protest, demonstrating strong unity in their demand.
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