Ankola, August 31, 2025 – Public frustration over the deteriorating condition of a key state highway in Ankola taluk, particularly near the Poojageri bridge, erupted into a unique protest during Ganesh Chaturthi. Residents, angered by the administration’s failure to address massive potholes that have disrupted traffic and endangered lives, planted trees and placed stones in the potholes to highlight the issue. The highway, connecting Belekeri to Gangavali bridge and Gokarna, has been neglected for 2–3 years, with only temporary patchwork repairs like filling potholes with stones and gravel, despite repeated complaints. Social media videos and images of the potholes have gone viral, drawing attention to the issue but yielding no permanent solution.

The protest, intensified during Gauri festival, aimed to alert drivers and pedestrians, especially during Ganesh idol immersion processions near Poojageri stream, where thousands gather. Potholes pose risks to vehicles carrying idols and to devotees, with potential for accidents or injuries. Locals fear damage to clay idols and injuries to women and children navigating the hazardous road. Despite tenders being issued for repairs, delays and excuses about the monsoon season have fueled public anger. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been criticized for its irresponsible approach, with temporary fixes washing away in rains.

The highway’s condition affects thousands of daily commuters, including school and college students, and tourists visiting Gokarna. Emergency vehicles like ambulances struggle to navigate the road, raising fears of further accidents. Noted naturopath and Rajyotsava awardee Hanumant Gowda Belambar urged the tahsildar and district authorities to inspect the site and issue strict directives to the PWD. Locals, including community leaders and students, have warned of escalating protests, including road blockades and PWD office sieges, if the issue isn’t resolved by September 10, 2025.