By The News Observer Desk,
Karwar: The roads of Uttara Kannada district, particularly in Karwar city limits, have become a nightmare for residents and commuters, plagued by potholes that have turned both highways and city streets into hazardous stretches. The Habbuwada-Kaiga road, a vital artery connecting the Kaiga Nuclear Project, railway station, and KEB office, is in a deplorable state, leaving commuters frustrated and angry.
Fed up with the worsening situation, autorickshaw drivers and owners staged a massive protest, marching to the Karwar Municipal Corporation to voice their outrage. The demonstration was sparked by the authorities’ failure to address the road’s condition despite earlier promises. Around one and a half months ago, municipal officials had assured auto drivers that repairs would be completed within five days following a similar protest. However, no progress has been made, fueling public discontent and accusations of negligence against the municipal authorities.
The poor state of the Habbuwada-Kaiga road has caused widespread inconvenience, with students, senior citizens, auto drivers, taxi operators, and even young children suffering injuries due to frequent accidents caused by potholes. Auto drivers from areas like Sunkeri and Kodibag are reluctant to ply this route, as the road’s condition often leads to vehicle damage, requiring repairs every few days. For drivers who rely on their autorickshaws and taxis for their livelihood, this adds a significant financial burden. Many are forced to take loans to cover repair costs, children’s education, and rent, all while paying taxes—yet they see no improvement in infrastructure.
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Protesters expressed their frustration, stating that the municipal authorities seem indifferent to their plight. In response, the Municipal Commissioner clarified that the Karwar-Kaiga road is a PWD (Public Works Department) road, and a tender has been issued to G.K. Ram Construction Company under the State Highway Development Authority for new road construction at select locations, with a budget of ₹15 crore. The commissioner also noted that the municipality has carried out patchwork repairs three times, but ongoing rains have delayed further work.
The pothole-ridden roads have become a symbol of administrative neglect in Karwar, with residents lamenting that development remains a distant dream. The situation continues to test the patience of the public, who demand urgent action to restore safe and navigable roads in the city.
