Motorcyclists, autos urged to use service roads between Surathkal and Nanthoor

Motorcyclists, autos urged to use service roads between Surathkal and Nanthoor

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, June 16, 2025: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has advised riders of two-wheelers and three-wheelers to use service roads while plying between Surathkal and Nantoor Junction stretch of National Highway 66 in the city during the monsoon period, which is upto September.

In a press release, NHAI Mangaluru Office Project Director and Highway Administrator Abdullah Javed Azmi stated that the torrential monsoon and ongoing downpour have damaged some sections of the highway in the city, making it unsafe for high-speed traffic.

Considering safety aspects and in a move to control traffic on the highway, he is using the powers vested in him under Section 31 of the Control of National Highways (Land and Traffic) Act 2002 to give the advice.

Service roads on the stretch are in motorable condition. If there is any defect, then NHAI will correct it, Mr. Azmi said. 

The speed limit between Surathkal and Nantoor Junction is 50 km/h. All National Highway users are advised to drive within the speed limit, Mr. Azmi stated.  

The statement comes following the death of Surathkal Janatha Colony resident Ashraf on the night of June 9 at Panambur on the national highway. The convenor of Tollgate Horata Samithi, Surathkal, Muneer Katipalla, said Ashraf encountered a deep crater on NH-66 at Panambur and fell off his bike. He was crushed by a tanker trailer that was behind him. Mr. Katipall decried the apathy of NHAI in ensuring the NH-66 stretch between Surathkal and Nantoor becomes pothole-free before the onset of monsoon.

Mr. Azmi stated that the major cause of the accident was a clash of heavy vehicles. Segregation of traffic will stop such incidents, especially between Baikampady and KIOCL area, he said.