The old Netravathi Bridge on Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66 off Mangalore will be closed for traffic for a month from April 1 (Tuesday) as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to take up its rehabilitation work. During the closure of the old bridge, vehicles will move on the new bridge where two-way movement will be permitted.

As part of the rehabilitation work of the old bridge, girders will be lifted and related nuts will be re-calibrated. Potholes on the carriageway will be filled and there will be asphalt coating.

Mangalore City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal said that because of the two-way movement, there could be a possibility of traffic congestion on the highway between Thokkottu and Pumpwell. He urged drivers and riders of all vehicles, as well as the public, to drive on the stretch with caution to avoid accidents. Motorists were asked avoid the route during peak hours.