Panemangaluru Bridge Awaits Expert Report, Light Vehicles Permitted Amid Safety Concerns: Bantwal News Report
Thursday, June 19, 2025
Bantwal, June 19, 2025: The historic Panemangaluru steel bridge in Bantwal taluk, Dakshina Kannada, remains under scrutiny as authorities await an expert report to determine its structural integrity. Following the discovery of cracks in the British-era structure, vehicular traffic was temporarily banned on June 11, 2025, by Bantwal Tahsildar Archana D. Bhat, citing safety concerns. However, recent updates indicate that light vehicles, including two-wheelers and cars, are now permitted to use the bridge for travel to areas such as Aladka, Nandavara, Marnabailu, Sajipa, and Panolibailu.
The bridge, which had previously been reinforced with iron arches due to visible deterioration, has been a critical link for local commuters. Despite its weakened state, the decision to allow light vehicle traffic comes as a temporary measure to ease connectivity while experts assess the bridge’s load-bearing capacity. “The restriction on heavy vehicles remains in place, and the municipal authorities have been directed to monitor the situation closely,” said Tahsildar Archana, emphasizing the priority of public safety.
The local administration is under pressure to expedite the expert evaluation, as the bridge’s condition has raised concerns among residents. “We rely on this bridge daily, but the cracks make it risky. We hope the report brings clarity soon,” said Ravi Kumar, a local shopkeeper. The report, expected to outline whether the bridge requires repairs or a complete overhaul, will guide the next steps, which could include further restrictions or restoration work.
This development follows a series of infrastructure challenges across Karnataka, with recent reports highlighting traffic disruptions and safety concerns on other routes. The Panemangaluru bridge situation underscores the need for timely maintenance of aging infrastructure, especially during the monsoon season, which exacerbates wear and tear. Authorities have urged commuters to adhere to traffic guidelines and stay updated on further announcements.
For now, light vehicle users can breathe a sigh of relief, but the bridge’s future hangs in the balance pending the expert verdict. The district administration has assured residents that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure safety and connectivity in the region.
Keywords: Panemangaluru Bridge, Karnataka bridge news, expert report, light vehicle traffic, Bantwal bridge safety, infrastructure update, Karnataka traffic restrictions, bridge repair news