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Karkala: Following the tragedy where three people died during the Hulikal Ghat work on the Kundapura-Shivamogga State Highway, several questions have been raised regarding the safety of Agumbe Ghat, a major link connecting Malnad and the coast. Passengers are traveling through Agumbe Ghat amidst the fear of landslides during the rainy season, dilapidated retaining walls, and ever-increasing traffic congestion.

Retaining walls have collapsed in many places across the 14 hairpin curves of Agumbe Ghat. In some curves, vehicles must be driven under the constant fear of when the retaining wall stones might crumble. There is a persistent dread of mountain rocks and soil sliding down during the upcoming monsoon.

As the ghat falls under the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and is an ecologically sensitive zone, development work here has become a major challenge. Currently, the condition of the retaining walls is highly alarming, making night travel dangerous. Since retaining walls have collapsed in some spots and are on the verge of falling in others, the respective district administrations and the Highway Department must take temporary measures for safety.

Exhausted by traffic jams

Locals say that the lack of maintenance, rather than the narrowness of the road, is the primary cause of traffic jams in the ghat. The road is narrow at the 6th, 7th, and 8th curves; when drivers coming from above do not give way to vehicles coming from below (Someshwara), vehicles get stuck. Tourists from far-off places, unaware of the local geography, rush through, and large buses or mini-lorries stalling at the curves are major reasons for the congestion.

Ban heavy cargo vehicles

At least two personnel should be deployed to control vehicles at the 6th, 7th, and 8th curves where traffic congestion is high. All retaining walls from the 6th to the 13th curves must be repaired immediately, and high-quality signage should be installed. Local resident Nagaraj Koove has submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioners of both districts, requesting a ban on vehicles like tippers carrying sand and stones, suggesting they be redirected via the Kerekatte Ghat.

Upgradation of Agumbe Ghat

A sum of 2.43 crore has been sanctioned for a feasibility study, detailed project report (DPR), survey, and land planning to expand NH-169A, which passes through Agumbe Ghat, into a two-lane road with footpaths on both sides. Appropriate measures for the development of Agumbe Ghat will be taken after the feasibility study report is received. — B.Y. Raghavendra, Member of Parliament