Udupi: Indrali Overpass completion deadline set for January 15!

Team Udayavani, Oct 30, 2024, 9:54 AM IST

Udupi: The Indrali overpass project, stalled for nearly five years, has gotten a new deadline. The project is set to be completed by January 15, 2025, following renewed commitments by contractors.

The delay in construction, due to disputes between the Railways and the National Highway Authority of India, had led to multiple accidents and public protests demanding immediate completion. With the girders for the project having arrived months ago, residents are now optimistic that the work will progress as the necessary materials are in place.

The 58-meter-long bridge, constructed from approximately 420 tonnes of steel, will be 12.50 meters wide and have 1.50-meter pedestrian paths on both sides. According to officials, the final stage of girder assembly is expected to be completed soon.

City traffic police have secured a signed undertaking from the contractor to finish the work by January 15. Failing to meet this deadline could result in criminal charges, as warned by Udupi MP Kota Srinivas Poojary.

The welding work, which requires more time and careful execution, is being conducted by a Railways-certified contractor, with each phase subject to separate approvals. Railway officials will conduct inspections at each stage to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Despite having a central minister representing the constituency earlier, progress had been stagnant for five years due to bureaucratic delays between the two departments. Local residents expressed frustration over how this project, intended to ease transportation issues, remained incomplete despite the presence of high-level officials in the central government.