Haveri: Unscientific speed humps on roads across Haveri district are making travel difficult, particularly for two-wheeler riders.Sources said speed humps are required to follow prescribed standards, with a maximum height of 10 cm, but several installed during road construction and repair works are allegedly as high as 10 inches.Commuters blamed elected representatives and officials for failing to enforce standards. The issue is not limited to interior roads, with highway authorities recently installing similar humps near PDW Cross in Haveri.Motorists said the oversized humps cause discomfort, damage vehicles and pose a safety risk, especially at night and for those unfamiliar with the roads. They have urged authorities to inspect and rectify humps that violate norms.The problem has been reported on several stretches, including the Yatnalli-Guttal road, where motorists said travel has become difficult. Similar complaints have emerged from zilla panchayat roads and other busy routes. In some places, multiple humps have been laid within short distances, forcing vehicles to slow repeatedly and inconveniencing commuters.Two-wheeler riders said the steep, uneven humps cause sudden jerks, damage vehicles and increase the risk of losing balance. Passengers in autorickshaws, buses and cars also reported discomfort, particularly the elderly, children and patients. Drivers said abrupt braking near the humps often leads to congestion and increases the risk of rear-end collisions.Road users said speed-control measures are necessary but must be safe, scientific and clearly visible. They urged officials to inspect all such humps and remove or redesign those that violate norms.They also blamed elected representatives, road construction agencies and local officials for poor supervision, alleging that humps are often built in response to local demands without technical inspection, proper design or approval from competent authorities.Girish Bennur, a tempo traveller owner from Haveri, said authorities had installed nearly six humps at some locations instead of a single scientifically designed one.“It causes a lot of inconvenience for passengers and drivers. Accidents are increasing instead of reducing after these humps were laid. They have become a headache for drivers who travel regularly on these routes,” he said.Officials have been urged to ensure future road works comply with Indian Roads Congress guidelines and to hold contractors accountable for unsafe construction. NN Patil, executive engineer, PWD, was not available for comment.
