3-km incomplete highway saw 32 deaths in five years

Haveri: An incomplete stretch of highway in the district has led to the deaths of 32 people in the past five years. The upgradation of National Highway-48 from four-lanes to six-lanes on the 403km stretch between Hubballi and Bengaluru was taken up a few years ago.
While work most of the work is complete, a 3-km stretch between Chatra and Motebennur of Byadagi taluk in Haveri district has remained incomplete.
The main highway is blocked for construction and traffic is diverted to a service road, which is in a very bad shape. Vehicles often move at speeds over 80kmph here. The highway does not have a proper underpass, flyover, or service road, and it has big potholes.
According to police records, 32 people have been killed and 16 severely injured in 27 reported accidents between these two spots in the last five years. The highest number of deaths was in 2021 when 10 people were killed. Police are trying to control accidents by putting up barricades where the highway doesn’t have underpasses and at accident spots.
Motebennur and Chatra residents had objected to the road widening work, demanding proper service roads and under bridges. While authorities delayed responding to their demands, the contractor stopped the road work 30 months ago after the contract period ended.
“We are finding it difficult to use this road as we must negotiate potholes. Besides, bullock carts are common on this highway. NHAI authorities have completely neglected the highway and failed to keep it in good condition,” alleged JD(S) leader Mahantesh Bevinahindi.
He said people have protested several times demanding NHAI to complete the work within a stipulated time, but to no avail. “MP Shivakumar Udasi too is silent on this issue,” Mahantesh said.
“This stretch is a hell for vehicle users. NHAI should maintain it properly as per law as it is a toll road. We have been appealing to the authorities to repair the highway, but in vain,” alleged Abdul Hubballi, a social worker.
When contacted, NHAI Chitradurga division manager Ravitej said the road work was delayed due to objections from local residents. “Now the tender process has been started for this part of the highway and we will complete the work soon,” he added.