Member of Parliament Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri has taken a strong stance, ordering district authorities to blacklist any contractors found to be delivering substandard work on projects managed by the National Highway Authority of India, Public Works Department, and other national highway initiatives.
During a District Road Safety Committee meeting held in Karwar on Tuesday, Mr. Kageri highlighted the persistent criticism faced by elected representatives and officials in the district due to significant delays in completing national highway projects. “While road construction in challenging terrains like Jammu and Kashmir is progressing smoothly, works in Uttara Kannada have languished unfinished for years,” he noted with concern.
Addressing the widespread issue of pothole-ridden roads, he instructed officials to ensure they are properly repaired and made safe for motorists. He also urged NHAI authorities to prioritize public safety by implementing adequate precautionary measures, including installing essential signages and reflectors along highways.
Furthermore, Mr. Kageri questioned the NHAI’s apparent neglect of Arabail Ghat, a notorious accident blackspot, demanding an explanation. He directed police authorities to compile and submit reports on all accident-prone areas to the highway department, emphasizing the need for immediate installation of warning signs and reflectors in these dangerous zones.
Highlighting the critical importance of timely medical intervention, Mr. Kageri stressed the necessity for accident victims to receive emergency healthcare within the ‘golden hour’ following an incident.
The meeting saw the attendance of several key officials, including Deputy Commissioner K. Lakshmipriya, ZP CEO Dilieeh Sasi, and Superintendent of Police Deepak M.N.