Traffic control measures implemented in Udupi: Will they be effective?

Udupi: Traffic congestion near Kalsanka junction has led authorities to block the road connecting Gundibail to Kalsanka. Motorists now need to take a free left turn towards Kadiyali, make a U-turn, and then enter the city. Similarly, commuters travelling from Manipal to Gundibail must go to the city bus stand, make a U-turn, and return. The move aims to reduce congestion at Kalsanka, as per traffic police.

Commuter Inconvenience

Residents of Gundibail face challenges due to the new measures. Even for short trips to places like Sri Krishna Matha or the city bus stand, they must travel to Kadiyali for a U-turn. Despite these steps, vehicles still queue up at the Kadiyali U-turn point. Traffic jams persist from the city bus stand to Kalsanka, forcing commuters to wait patiently.

Alternative Routes to Avoid Kalsanka

• For Manipal to Mangaluru: Use the Alevoor-Katapadi route or Sharada Kalyana Mantapa-Beedinagudde road.
• For Manipal to Ambagilu: Use the Perampalli route.
• For Manipal to Gundibail: Take the Perampalli-Sagri Chakratirtha road.
• For Two-Wheelers: Use the left-side road near Ocean Pearl Hotel in Kadiyali and access Tenka Pete via Rathabeedi car parking.

Barricades and Free Lefts

Barricades have been installed to enforce the free-left policy from Gundibail to Manipal. When traffic is light, vehicles can enter the city directly via Gundibail and Kalsanka. However, during peak congestion, vehicles must use the Kadiyali route for smoother traffic flow, says Sub-Inspector Sudarshan Doddmani of the Traffic Department.