Sat Jan 18 15:02:45 UTC 2025: ## Puttur MLA Threatens Protest Over Slow NH 75 Widening Work

**Mangaluru, January 18, 2025:** Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai has issued a strong warning to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) over the sluggish progress of the Mangaluru-Bengaluru National Highway 75 widening project. Inspecting the work between B.C. Road and Periyashanthi on Saturday, Rai expressed serious displeasure at the slow pace, particularly between Kalladka and Uppinangady.

He noted a significant lack of workers at key locations and criticized the overall tardiness of the project. Rai issued an ultimatum, threatening agitation and a public rally if at least one carriageway isn’t motorable by mid-February. The project, undertaken by KNR Constructions and S.M. Autade Pvt. Ltd., involves widening NH75 to a four-lane road.

During the inspection, Rai also directed the NHAI to immediately address the approach road to the Sahasralingeshwara Temple and construct a retaining wall. He suggested using an existing bridge for parking and light vehicle movement. His concerns mirror those voiced by local residents and road users, who, as reported earlier this month by The Hindu, are skeptical about the highway’s completion before the monsoon. While the contractor expressed confidence in completing 90% of the work by April 2025, the MLA’s intervention highlights the growing public frustration with the project’s delays.

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