The residents of Padukere and nearby villages have been demanding for nearly five decades that a bridge be constructed across the Udyavara rivulet to connect Padukere with Malpe. But, delay in the release of funds has hampered its construction.
The residents have been using a boat to travel from Padukere to Malpe. Besides fishermen, women, students and the elderly use the service. If they were to use the road they would have to travel about 15 km to reach Udupi and 18 km to reach Malpe. But the distance between Malpe and Padukere across the rivulet is about a km.
Vidyaraj, a resident of Padukere, said he had been hearing about the demand for a bridge since his childhood. “It has not become a reality so far. A bridge is essential because if there is a health emergency during night, it is difficult to use a boat. If we use the road, it will take quiet a long time,” he said.
Suresh Mendon, an accountant, said as the sea was near the rivulet in Malpe, it created problems while navigating the boat, when the sea was rough. “At the same time, when it is low tide, people have to struggle to alight from the boat to the land. The bridge will solve all our problems,” he said.
Prajwal, a Class 10 student of Adiudupi Government School, said that many students crossed rivulet by the boat.
“During the monsoon, we get drenched on the boat, which is unpleasant,” he said.
The boat service begins as early as 3 a.m. and closes at midnight from August to May during the fishing season as most fishermen use this service. During the off-season from June 1 to July 31, the boat service is available from 5 a.m. to 9.30 p.m.
The boat service operates with the funds provided by the Devi Bhajana Mandira and Veeranjaneya Vyayamashale in Padukere. Two boats with outboard engines operate between Padukere and Malpe. They charge Rs. 2.50 a trip.
The construction of the bridge, at a cost of Rs. 13.5 crore, which began in February 2013, has limped because of a delay in release of funds.
P. Yuvaraj, President of Udupi City Municipal Council, said that Rs. 4.8 crore had been spent on the bridge, while another Rs. 3 crore had been allocated for it.
“The State government is expected to release the remaining amount soon. The construction of the bridge is likely to be completed by December-end,” he added.
The residents have been using a boat to travel from Padukere to Malpe
