NH-66 service road plan in Ullal gets public nod; calls for increased green cover

Mangalore Today News Network

Ullal, Apr 7, 2026: A public hearing on tree felling for a proposed service road along National Highway 66 between Kolya and Kotekar in Ullal taluk saw participants backing the project while strongly advocating measures to maintain ecological balance through enhanced green cover.

The hearing, organised by the Forest Department at Kapikad near Thokkottu, followed a proposal by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) seeking permission to fell trees for constructing a service road and drainage system along a 700-metre stretch (km 12+000 to km 12+700) of the highway.

Mangaluru Range Forest Officer Rajesh Baligar said that under the Karnataka Tree Preservation Act, 1976, public objections must be invited if more than 50 trees are proposed to be felled. Officials have identified 120 trees on the stretch.

“Based on the objections received, authorities will decide the exact number of trees to be cut. Around five to six trees may also be relocated,” he said.

Someshwara Town Municipal Council Vice-President Ravishankar supported the project, urging authorities to plant additional saplings to offset tree loss and preserve greenery. “A service road is essential for local residents, but ecological balance must be maintained alongside development,” he said.

Former Talapady gram panchayat president Suresh Alva stressed the need for a service road from Kumpala Bypass to Thokkottu overbridge, suggesting that at least 250 saplings be planted as compensation.

Kotekar Town Panchayat President Divya S Shetty noted that many of the trees marked for felling were planted by the Forest Department about a decade ago. She urged better planning in future plantations to avoid removal during infrastructure expansion and suggested planting on vacant government land.

Highlighting safety concerns, NHAI horticulture expert Ashika KJ said the project aims to address an accident-prone black spot. “A 7.5-metre-wide service road will help prevent vehicles from abruptly entering the highway. We plan to complete the work before the monsoon,” she said.

Baligar added that NHAI will fund the planting of 10 saplings for every tree felled through the Forest Department. The identified trees include species such as Avalanda, Peltophorum, Deodara, along with Badam, Kadamba, mango, and teak.

Assistant Conservator of Forests Shashikant Vibhute said saplings will be planted on available land, including educational institution campuses, along Someshwara beach, and other suitable locations.