Santhekatte overpass work in final stages

Udupi: The Santhekatte overpass construction is 80% complete, with vehicle movement already allowed on one side. The work on the bridge connecting both sides is progressing rapidly and is expected to be fully open for traffic by the end of March.

The overpass construction on National Highway 66 at Santhekatte began in January 2023. Two massive boulders posed significant challenges to the project, resulting in nearly a year being spent solely on the rock-breaking process.

Following this, local residents and motorists have faced numerous hardships over the past two to three years, including highway potholes and service road issues. A proper service road has yet to be constructed.

Now that the overpass is nearing completion, there is an urgent need to systematically develop the service roads on both sides as well.

Measures to prevent waterlogging

The overpass has been constructed using modern technology to prevent water stagnation. Since there is a natural water spring in the area, pipes with small perforations have been installed to ensure that water seepage does not damage the road. Additionally, proper signboards need to be installed at all necessary points.

80% completion

Half of the overbridge construction at the Santhekatte junction is already finished, and the remaining half is 80% complete. Once this is finalized, movement between the two sides on the upper level will be seamless.

Completed Works:

• Concreting of the four-lane road inside the overpass.

• Construction of retaining walls and dividers.

• Painting of retaining walls and dividers.

• Installation of street light poles.

Pending Works:

• Construction of retaining walls for the service road.

• Partial completion of the overbridge section.

• Repair and restoration of service roads.

• Final drainage works.

• Reconstruction of the bus stand.

• Installation of signboards.

Completion soon

"The Santhekatte overpass work is mostly nearing completion, and we will open it fully for traffic by the end of March. The work was slightly delayed due to the two massive boulders encountered at the site," said Kota Srinivas Poojary, Member of Parliament.