Wed May 21 10:08:20 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text, along with a summary:

**Summary:**

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to begin construction on over 13 km of service roads and six foot overbridges (FoBs) along the Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66 in the Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts of Karnataka. This initiative, costing approximately ₹72 crore, aims to improve pedestrian and vehicular safety by addressing the lack of service roads and safe crossing points. The project is a direct response to persistent demands from local residents and representatives who have highlighted the dangers and inconveniences caused by the current highway infrastructure. Construction is slated to begin after the monsoon season.

**News Article:**

**NHAI to Build Service Roads, Foot Overbridges on NH-66 in Coastal Karnataka**

**MANGALURU, May 21, 2025** – The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to construct over 13 kilometers of service roads and six foot overbridges (FoBs) along the Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66 in the Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. The project, with an estimated cost of ₹72 crore, aims to significantly improve road safety and ease traffic congestion in the region.

The initiative addresses long-standing concerns from local residents and elected officials who have repeatedly pointed out the lack of adequate infrastructure for local traffic and pedestrian crossings. The absence of service roads has forced local motorists to take detours or travel against the flow of traffic, creating hazardous conditions.

“Work on the service roads and FoBs will commence soon after the monsoon,” stated Abdulla Javed Azmi, Project Director of NHAI Mangaluru. “This project is a direct response to the demands of the people and the recommendations of the district administrations and police departments.”

The service roads will be built on stretches in Koteshwara, Beejadi to Thekkatte, Saligrama, Ambagilu, Balaipade to Udyavara, Bada Yermal, Hejmady, Mulky, Padupanambur, Haleyangadi and Beeri. Responding to specific requests from Brahmavara residents after a recent tragic accident, NHAI confirmed that a service road will also be constructed near Mahesh Hospital and Shamli Lawn in Brahmavara.

The foot overbridges will be erected at key locations along the highway, including Mahesh Hospital in Brahmavara, Nittur in Udupi, Thenka Yermal, Bappanadu Temple in Mulky, Mukka Junction, and Yekkur near the Fisheries College in Mangaluru. These FoBs will provide safe pedestrian crossings, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.

The NHAI’s announcement has been welcomed by residents and local representatives, who see it as a crucial step towards improving road safety and reducing traffic-related problems along the busy national highway.

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