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Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta said instructions have already been issued to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to complete the service road work from Nantoor to KPT at the earliest to ease traffic congestion on a temporary basis.

Responding to the Udayavani Sudina campaign titled “KPT–Nantoor traffic crisis”, the MP said contractors are currently carrying out the work at a rapid pace. He said this will help reduce traffic congestion in the short term.

For a permanent solution, Chowta said a high-level Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared for the Surathkal–BC Road stretch of the national highway, and the long-standing Nantoor traffic problem will be addressed through this DPR.

“I have been closely following the reports published in Udayavani over the past few days regarding the KPT–Nantoor issue. Earlier, the road from Surathkal to BC Road was under the supervision of New Mangalore Port Road Company Limited (NMPRCL). It has now been transferred to the National Highways Authority of India, which is the first step towards change,” he said.

He added that after the transfer, approval has been granted for preparing a DPR to upgrade the road, and an agency has already been appointed. Discussions will be held with the agency to prioritise removal of black spots and improve traffic flow along the Surathkal–BC Road stretch. The road will later be upgraded along with service roads.

Chowta said Nantoor is considered a black spot due to frequent traffic jams and recurring congestion. “Necessary measures will be taken to ensure the issue is included in the upcoming DPR and addressed permanently,” he said.

No decision yet on flyover or underpass

Clarifying speculation over proposed structures at Nantoor, the MP said it is too early to decide whether a flyover, underpass or elevated highway will be constructed.

“During DPR preparation, the agency will conduct a detailed assessment to determine what is most suitable for Nantoor. Only after the DPR is finalised will such decisions be taken,” he said.

Public cooperation essential: MLA Kamath

MLA Vedavyas Kamath said there was an earlier proposal for Nantoor, but it remained pending for various reasons. With service road work and other development activities now underway, efforts are being made to prepare a fresh DPR and execute the road project systematically.

He said public cooperation is crucial during this phase. “Given the location and existing infrastructure at Nantoor, widening the road alone may not be sufficient. However, all precautions will be taken to ensure minimal inconvenience to the public while facilitating smooth passage of the national highway,” he said.

Kamath added that changes during development projects are inevitable and must be viewed in the right perspective. “Ultimately, the priority is the overall development of Mangaluru and ensuring public benefit,” he said.