Bhatkal: Uttara Kannada MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri on Sunday received multiple public representations during his visit to Bhatkal, with key concerns centred on the long-pending National Highway-66 (NH-66) works.

While en route to Mangaluru, the MP stopped near Puravarga and interacted with local residents. They flagged safety concerns, citing the absence of a road divider, service road and proper bus stop. The stretch, which connects five roads and is located near a school, church and temple, has been causing inconvenience to commuters. Residents urged immediate construction of a service road.

Kageri said the NH-66 project in the region had remained slow for nearly 14 years but had gained momentum after he assumed office. He noted that underpasses at Moodbhatkal and Kaikini have been sanctioned and are under construction. He assured that officials would be directed to expedite the works and address local issues on priority.

Residents from Moodbhatkal and Puravarga also submitted memorandums highlighting problems caused by the ongoing highway works. Representatives of a traditional country boat fishermen’s association submitted their demands.

Later, the MP attended the inauguration of a newly built Havyaka Bhavan at Gorte.
In a separate representation, a delegation led by Uttara Kannada District Kabaddi Association president Sridhar Naik urged provision of kabaddi mats to all taluk centres. Kageri assured that steps would be taken in the interest of promoting sports.

Local BJP leaders and other dignitaries were present.