Heavy rainfall washed away the temporary road at Ambadabettu on the Ujire-Guripalla Road in Mangaluru, disrupting connectivity for thousands of residents. With the road rendered impassable, commuters are taking long detours until the new bridge is opened.
Heavy rainfall on Monday once again washed away the temporary road at Ambadabettu on the Ujire-Guripalla Road, disrupting connectivity for thousands of residents in the region. The damage has left families from Guripalla, Nada, Indabettu, Padpu and nearby villages without direct road access, forcing them to rely on lengthy alternative routes for their daily commute. The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of temporary infrastructure during the monsoon, even as the construction of a new permanent bridge nears completion.
Temporary Road Washed Away Again
This is not the first time the temporary road has been damaged by heavy rainfall. It was previously washed away on 9 June and was later restored to re-establish connectivity.
Following that incident, the District Collector officially prohibited vehicular movement on the temporary road due to safety concerns. However, local residents continued using the route as it remained the most convenient connection between the surrounding villages.
With the latest spell of heavy rain washing away the connecting stretch once again, the road has become completely impassable, cutting off direct access for all vehicles.
New Bridge Nears Completion
The old bridge across the stream at Ambadabettu had deteriorated significantly over the years, prompting repeated demands from local residents for a permanent replacement.
Responding to the long-standing demand, the government approved the construction of a new bridge at an estimated cost of ₹2.50 crore around two years ago.
The foundation stone for the project was laid on 10 February, and construction commenced on 16 April.
Officials said the bridge is now in the final stages of construction. Only the mandatory curing period for the concrete remains before it can be opened to traffic. The bridge is expected to be ready for public use within the next 15 to 20 days.
Residents Forced to Take Longer Routes
Until the new bridge is opened, residents will have to rely on longer alternative routes.
Travellers heading towards Ujire must take a 10 km detour via Padpu and Surya. Those travelling to Belthangady have to cover an additional 25 km via Keltaje or Indabettu. People travelling towards Mundaje must take a route that is approximately 15 km longer via Bolluru Bailu.
Residents have urged the authorities to complete the remaining work on the new bridge at the earliest to restore normal connectivity and reduce the hardship caused by repeated monsoon disruptions.