Stany Bantwal Leads Effort to Restore Zebra Crossing on National Highway at Bikarnakatte

Mangaluru, Jan 22: A zebra crossing near the U-turn in front of the Infant Jesus Shrine entrance on the national highway at Bikarnakatte had been neglected for years. Despite repeated complaints to the national highway engineers, their dismissive response was, “We do not have people to carry out the work.” This negligence made crossing the road a daunting and unsafe task for pedestrians.

Determined to resolve the issue, Stany Bantwal, a concerned resident and renowned photographer, took the initiative to bring the matter to the authorities’ attention. He personally visited the national highway office in Nanthoor to report the problem. To his shock, the officials demanded Rs 20,000 to repaint the zebra crossing, claiming that funding constraints required external payments to initiate the work. Refusing to succumb to this unreasonable demand, Stany sought assistance from the traffic police instead.

With support from the traffic police, Stany decided to take direct action. He purchased paint and, with the help of Jerry Lobo, Mihir Dixit, and members of the traffic police, restored the zebra crossing himself. This collective effort ensured that pedestrians could now cross the road safely.

Stany voiced his disappointment with the national highway authorities, criticizing their reluctance to carry out basic responsibilities despite collecting significant tolls from the public. He pointed out that these tolls are meant to fund essential infrastructure maintenance and improvements, making the negligence even more unacceptable.

“I have shown them that tasks they claim are impossible can indeed be accomplished,” remarked Stany Bantwal, underlining his commitment to public safety. His efforts have brought much-needed relief to residents and set an inspiring example of community action.