Neeleswaram: The 25-metre-wide underpass at Neeleswaram Market has become a major  bottleneck, causing troubles for residents and commuters alike.

Regular commuters are complaining that those travelling via the National Highway now have to plan their journeys in advance, taking into account the frequent blockages in the market area. Vehicles coming from different directions, including heavy vehicles and buses, are forced to pass through this underpass, resulting in traffic congestion that often extends onto the service roads on both sides.

On Wednesday evening, an ambulance from Thaliparamba CH Centre, transporting a critically ill patient to Mangaluru, got stuck at the underpass for a prolonged period. The police and local residents intervened to help clear the way, allowing the ambulance to pass after considerable effort.

New under-passage needed
Neeleswaram Municipal Councillor Rafeekh Kotappuram has written to the NHAI Project Director, requesting the  allocation of an additional passage at the same location. This would ease congestion for vehicles coming from Kottappuram House Boat terminal - a major tourist centre, Valiyaparambu, Achamthuthy and other nearby areas, crossing the National Highway.