Savitha (59) from Belman died in a tragic bike-pickup collision on Nitte–Doopadakatte Road. Locals demand urgent safety measures. Police investigation underway.
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BREAKING: Woman Dies in Collision on Nitte-Doopadakatte Road in Karkala Taluk
KARKALA, June 15, 2025 — A tragic accident on the Nitte–Doopadakatte Road claimed the life of a woman identified as Savitha (59) of Belman village. The collision, which occurred around 5 PM near the Kukkedy Cross on June 15, involved a bike and a pickup vehicle.
According to police reports, Savitha was riding pillion on a two-wheeler when a pickup van coming from the opposite direction lost control and collided head-on near a narrow turn. The impact threw Savitha onto the road, causing severe injuries. Despite immediate local assistance, she was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Her son, who was riding the bike, sustained minor injuries and is currently recovering.
Fatal Accident on Nitte–Doopadakatte Road Claims Woman’s Life in Karkala
Police Investigation Underway
The Karkala Rural Police have registered a case, and investigations are ongoing. Locals have complained that the Nitte–Doopadakatte stretch, especially near Kukkedy, lacks adequate signage and speed control measures, making it a frequent site for accidents.
Karkala ASP P.A. Borge, speaking to Kudla.News, confirmed that technical teams have been sent to inspect the road conditions, and local authorities have been instructed to take immediate preventive steps.
Growing Concerns Over Rural Road Safety
This incident adds to the growing list of fatalities on rural Karnataka roads. While the state has introduced several traffic safety initiatives in urban centers, village stretches remain vulnerable due to sharp bends, poor lighting, and unregulated traffic movement.
Local resident Ganesh Rao, a nearby shopkeeper, shared, "Every year, we see at least two or three major accidents on this same stretch. Authorities need to install speed breakers or convex mirrors to avoid blind-spot crashes."
Public Demand for Safety Measures
Following the accident, villagers gathered at the spot and blocked the road briefly, demanding speed regulation signs, road widening, and reflective barriers. Authorities have promised to conduct a site survey by the end of the week.
Karkala Panchayat officials along with local MLA's representatives are expected to meet the District Collector regarding long-term road safety planning for the region.
