PONDA:The two lane Dhavlim – Farmagudi Bypass Road was expanded to a four-lane road around four years ago, giving people hope that the wider Bypass may prove safer. This was not to be, as the sharp bends and accident-causing turns remained and adding flyovers and poorly-designed speed-breakers to the mix has just made the situation even worse, say locals. For instance, one of the sharp bends near Hotel Venkatesh Lila has gained notoriety as the “90-degree curve” among locals.
The GVM Circle is another death trap, say road-users, as its faulty design has resulted in several accidents. A steep slope on the Dhavlim-Farmagudi road is another spot infamous for being accident-prone, as heavy vehicles and trucks often tip over or topple while ascending the slope, with its sharp bends. According to locals the four-lane road retained its sharp turns as politicians allowed their ‘well-wishers’ to retain their land, instead of acquiring it to help straighten the road and make it safer for commuters.
