Shivamogga: The Shivamogga district administration has introduced a temporary passenger exchange system at Hulikal Ghat to restore connectivity after landslides forced a complete halt to traffic.Additional DC V Abhishek said buses from Udupi district will now drop passengers at Hulikal Ghat, from where they can continue their journey within Shivamogga district, following safety protocols.The system, implemented on April 14, permits only 35-seater public transport buses. Passengers must walk about 85 narrow steps to cross the ghat section. The facility is restricted to physically fit passengers due to the climb involved.Buses on the Shivamogga–Hosanagara–Nagara–Mastikatte–Kundapura route are allowed to operate only up to the Chandika Temple. With help from local residents, road shoulders have been widened to 18 feet near the first curve to allow buses to turn safely.The administration has ordered handrails to be installed along the steps and medical teams to be stationed for emergencies ahead of the monsoon. Public entry into the landslide-affected zone remains prohibited.Three people died at the ghat following mudslides last week. Public works minister Satish Jarkiholi visited the site earlier. Repair work will continue through the year, officials said.
