To enhance road safety and connectivity along the coastal stretch of National Highway 66, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to construct over 13 kilometres of service roads and six new foot overbridges (FoBs) between Kundapura and Talapady in Karnataka.
The long-awaited development aims to streamline local traffic movement and address mounting concerns about pedestrian safety on this vital yet increasingly congested corridor. The ₹72 crore infrastructure upgrade is set to commence post-monsoon and covers key stretches across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. The service roads will be constructed on both sides of the highway, with targeted locations selected based on traffic volume, accident data, and repeated appeals from local communities. The identified sites include Koteshwara, Beejadi to Thekkatte, Saligrama, Ambagilu, Balaipade to Udyavara, Bada Yermal, Hejmady, Mulky, Padupanambur, Haleyangadi, and Beeri.
For decades, commuters and residents along this critical stretch of NH 66 have grappled with the absence of service lanes. The lack of parallel roads has not only caused major inconvenience for local traffic but also compelled many to drive against one-way rules, creating unsafe conditions for all road users. In several cases, the situation has led to accidents and even fatalities, most recently involving a schoolchild in Brahmavara, which triggered renewed demands for infrastructure intervention. Responding to sustained pressure from district authorities, civic stakeholders, and elected representatives, the Ministry of Road Transport has greenlit the proposal to build both the service roads and pedestrian footbridges. This comes after site inspections and consultations between the NHAI, local police, and administrative bodies. The decision aligns with the national push for safer highways and urban corridors that are inclusive and pedestrian-friendly.
As part of its expanded scope of work, NHAI will also construct service roads on both flanks of the highway in Brahmavara between Mahesh Hospital and Shamli Lawn — a stretch that saw public outcry following the recent fatality. In a parallel move, six foot overbridges will be constructed at pedestrian-heavy zones, including Mahesh Hospital in Brahmavara, Nittur, Thenka Yermal, Bappanadu Temple, Mukka Junction, and Yekkur near Fisheries College in Mangaluru. These upgrades reflect a broader vision of creating safer and more accessible national highway systems that consider both motorised and non-motorised users. By integrating service roads and elevated crossings into existing infrastructure, the NHAI is helping reduce carbon footprints through smoother traffic flow and promoting walkability — an essential element in building sustainable and equitable urban transport systems.
The project, once completed, is expected to decongest the main highway, reduce travel times for local communities, and provide safer travel options for schoolchildren, senior citizens, and daily commuters. Moreover, this approach supports India’s climate goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by encouraging efficient land use, reducing traffic emissions, and ensuring safer roads for all. While construction is scheduled to begin post-monsoon, the focus now rests on timely execution and ensuring minimal disruption during the building phase. With the groundwork laid for a more inclusive and secure highway experience, the success of this initiative may well serve as a model for other urban-rural highway corridors across India.
Also read :UP Acquires Land for Expressway Industrial Hubs
