The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has accorded in-principle approval for construction of a service road and related infrastructure at Bannadka on National Highway-169 as part of the ongoing four-laning of the Sanur to Bikarnakatte section. The proposed works are estimated at Rs 58 million (Rs 58 mn) and will be implemented alongside the main carriageway to address access issues arising from the widening. The approval follows repeated representations from local residents and elected representatives seeking safer access to properties along the highway.

Local accounts described restricted entry to homes and businesses after the carriageway was widened, with pedestrian movements and small vehicle access becoming more difficult in several areas. Authorities said absence of dedicated service lanes had increased the risk of conflict between local users and through traffic and that the new infrastructure aims to reduce such risks. The proposal emphasises designated entry and exit points and a parallel route for low speed movements to improve safety.

Officials said the parallel service road will reduce bottlenecks on the main carriageway by segregating slow local traffic from higher speed vehicles, smoothing flows for long distance movements and daily commuting. The infrastructure is expected to support access to educational institutions, shops and small enterprises that line the highway and reduce routine travel time for commuters. Proponents added that clearer access patterns will aid traffic management and help lower the incidence of minor collisions arising from sudden turning movements.

Work on detailed designs, land and statutory clearances will proceed before construction begins, with NHAI completing necessary planning and coordination in the coming months. The four-laning upgrade of NH-169 is a strategic transport initiative linking Mangaluru with Moodbidri, Karkala and interior parts of Karnataka and carrying a mix of passenger and commercial traffic. Public representatives welcomed the in-principle nod and said the supporting service road will complement the main project by improving last mile connectivity for daily commuters and businesses.