A view of Old Panemangalore bridge.
Credit: Special Arrangement
Mangaluru: The residents of Panemangalore in Bantwal have urged the government to build a parallel bridge to the existing bridge which was constructed during the British era in 1914.
The bridge once served as a crucial connectivity for trade, transportation of goods, and travel between Mangaluru and its surrounding areas. Additionally, it played a vital role in linking the Mangaluru-Bengaluru National Highway, making it an essential bridge for commerce and communication. Even after India’s independence, the bridge remained a reliable and useful structure for the public. Even today, it continues to serve as an important route connecting B C Road to Goodinabali, Panemangalore Market, the historic Nandavara Temple, Nandavara Mosque, Melkar, and Sajipa regions.
The residents have initiated a campaign demanding a parallel bridge adjacent to the old bridge and even submitted a memorandum to District in Charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao during Janata darshana recently.
Bantwal TMC Councillor representing Panemangalore ward Mohammed Idris P J said in recent years, heavy floods in the Netravati river and the bridge’s ageing structure have led to its gradual weakening. The pillars of the bridge have deteriorated significantly.
Due to safety concerns, the Bantwal Municipality imposed a ban on heavy vehicles using the bridge and installed iron barriers on both ends. However, the sudden decision by the municipality, without properly informing the public, has led to numerous accidents. Many heavy vehicle drivers, unaware of the iron barriers, have collided , resulting in significant financial losses. Additionally, trucks getting stuck under the barriers have led to hours-long traffic congestion, causing inconvenience to the general public and emergency services," he said.
The Panemangalore Old Bridge, which holds over a century of historical significance, is an architectural heritage of Dakshina Kannada district. To ensure public safety and maintain connectivity, it is the government’s responsibility to construct an alternative modern bridge while preserving this historical structure.
Social worker Ahmed Kabeer said “the bridge should be saved as a heritage structure and close it for vehicular movement after a parallel bridge is constructed. The old bridge can be used for morning or evening walks by the citizens."