Motorcyclist Killed in Murdeshwar Highway Accident, Public Anger Erupts Over NH 66 Expansion Works
Locals blame faulty road design and inadequate safety measures for rising accidents and demand immediate corrective action.
A tragic road accident near Murdeshwar on National Highway 66 claimed the life of a 55 year old motorcyclist on Wednesday, triggering widespread public outrage and fresh concerns over the ongoing highway expansion works.The deceased has been identified as Krishna Shaniyar Naik, a resident of Subbatti area. According to sources, he was travelling towards Murdeshwar on his motorcycle when the accident occurred near Basti Junction.
Reports indicate that while attempting to cross the road, his motorcycle was hit from behind by a speeding lorry. The impact threw him onto the road, and he reportedly came under the wheels of the heavy vehicle, resulting in his death on the spot.
News of the incident quickly spread, prompting a large number of local residents to gather at the accident site. Angry protesters alleged that poor planning of the highway expansion project and the absence of adequate safety measures have turned the stretch into a dangerous accident prone zone.
The protesters raised slogans against the concerned authorities and demanded immediate intervention to improve road safety. They claimed that several accidents have occurred in the area in recent months and accused the authorities of failing to address public concerns despite repeated appeals.
Considering the tense situation, senior officials including the Bhatkal Deputy Superintendent of Police, Assistant Commissioner, Tahsildar and Murdeshwar police officers rushed to the spot and held discussions with the protesters.
After prolonged negotiations, representatives of the construction company reportedly assured the public that necessary corrective measures and additional safety facilities would be implemented at the location. Following these assurances, the protesters withdrew their agitation.
The body of the deceased was later shifted to the Government Hospital for postmortem examination.
The incident has once again brought attention to the safety concerns surrounding the NH 66 expansion project, with local residents urging authorities to take urgent steps to prevent further loss of life.