Sun Jan 04 06:40:12 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the article and a rewrite as a news report:
Summary:
The National Highways Division of the Karnataka Public Works Department will soon restore the worn road surface at the hairpin curves of Agumbe Ghat, a crucial link between Udupi and Shivamogga/Chikkamagaluru districts. The road had deteriorated due to increased traffic and heavy monsoon rains, causing difficulties for drivers and traffic pile-ups. The maintenance work has commenced and the damaged stretches should be fixed within a week. Additionally, convex mirrors have been installed at the hairpin bends to improve visibility and safety.
News Article:
Agumbe Ghat Road Repair Imminent; Safety Improved with Convex Mirrors
MANGALURU – January 4, 2026 – Road users can expect smoother journeys along the Agumbe Ghat, a vital route connecting Udupi with Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts, as the National Highways Division of the Karnataka Public Works Department (NH-PWD) has begun restoration work on its deteriorating surface. The repairs are focused on the 14 hairpin curves of the approximately 10km stretch, which suffered significant damage following the prolonged monsoon season of 2025 and years of increasing vehicular traffic.
“Annual maintenance works have already started from Hebri towards Agumbe, while affected stretches of Malpe-Tirthahalli NH 169A till about Someshwara have been fixed,” said a senior NH-PWD engineer. “Battered stretches on Agumbe Ghat would be fixed in about a week”.
The poor condition of the road surface, characterized by worn bitumen and potholes, has been a source of frustration for drivers, leading to slow-moving traffic and congestion. The project was delayed due to rejected tenders, but a contractor has now been selected not only to fix the damaged stretches but also to maintain the highway for one year.
In addition to the road repairs, the NH-PWD has installed convex mirrors at each hairpin bend. These mirrors appear to have already significantly improved safety by allowing drivers approaching the curves to anticipate oncoming traffic, thus mitigating the dangers of blind spots. “Those driving down from Agumbe were able to take prior caution after watching approaching vehicles from Someshwara and give them way,” the engineer stated.
The restoration work and the installation of convex mirrors are expected to greatly improve travel conditions and enhance safety for the many tourists and residents who rely on the Agumbe Ghat.
First Piper 