The Democratic Youth Federation of India's (DYFI) Bajal Divisional Committee issued a strong call on August 30, demanding immediate safety infrastructure improvements along the hazardous Jappinamogaru-Ekkur stretch of National Highway 66 in Mangaluru. The committee highlighted the daily struggle faced by hundreds of pedestrians, including students, who risk their lives attempting to cross the busy highway amidst fast-moving traffic.
According to the DYFI, the lack of adequate high-mast lighting at Jappinamogaru Junction particularly exacerbates the danger after dark, posing significant threats to both motorists and pedestrians. This deficiency, they stated, has already contributed to multiple accidents and tragic loss of life in the area. The organization strongly condemned the Highway Authority's perceived negligence towards public safety, despite the documented risks.
To mitigate these critical safety concerns, the DYFI Bajal Divisional Committee has specifically urged the National Highway Authority to construct a skywalk, or footbridge, for the safe passage of pedestrians in the Jappinamogaru and Ekkur vicinities. Additionally, they demanded the prompt installation of sufficient high-mast lights at Jappinamogaru Junction and other crucial points along the stretch.
Prakash Shetty, Secretary of the DYFI Bajal Divisional Committee, emphasized the necessity for scientific and permanent safety measures to protect lives. In a press release, he warned that if the Highway Authority continues to overlook public safety and allows further accidents, the committee would have no option but to mobilize the public and initiate widespread protests. He stressed that an immediate site inspection and commencement of these vital works are imperative.
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📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK