Mangaluru: After decades of protests by various organisations and political parties, the railway ministry approved the proposal to develop Pandeshwar level crossing, which has long been a source of major traffic issues and inconvenience for the public, into a four-lane road.Residents consistently demanded a permanent solution as the crossing remains closed more than 11 times a day. The narrow road witnesses heavy traffic snarls each time the gates are reopened.
Shri Ambamaheshwari Seva Trust, as part of the Awake Kudla initiative, also installed a display board to alert commuters about gate closures and guide them to alternative routes using simple, easily understood symbols. The level crossing on the busy city road closes 11 times between 8.35am and 8.25pm. The gate remains closed for at least 10-15 minutes for each train to cross. However, the trust stated that the timings may change slightly due to additional trains or operational reasons.Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta stated that Southern Railway approved the development of the Pandeshwar level crossing road into a four-lane road. “Recognising the seriousness of the issue, I gave strict instructions to railway officials during a meeting at the deputy commissioner’s office. I emphasised the need for a permanent solution at this level crossing, and directed the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) and railway officials to collaboratively prepare a comprehensive report on possible solutions, which should be uploaded on the railway department’s official portal. The railway department agreed to upgrade the Pandeshwar level crossing road to a four-lane road,” the MP said.This decision follows continuous discussions between the MP and the general manager of Southern Railway, as well as the divisional railway manager of the Palakkad division. “An estimate list for the widening of the level crossing road is currently being prepared, and the tender process for the road widening work at Pandeshwar level crossing is expected to take place by the end of March. Once widened, the level crossing road will facilitate smoother traffic flow. Additionally, a ‘double boom’ automatic gate system is being installed for safety, which will help alleviate traffic congestion and ensure smooth traffic movement in the future,” said Capt Chowta.
