Hubballi: Gabbur Cross, the main entry point to Hubballi city from Bengaluru on the Pune–Bengaluru highway, has emerged as an accident spot due to unauthorised halts by KSRTC and private buses. The busy junction witnesses frequent minor accidents and traffic-related incidents almost every day.Gabbur Cross has become a key transit point for passengers travelling towards Belagavi, Bengaluru and other destinations. Commuters said traffic remains heavy throughout the day, while the absence of organised passenger facilities has increased risks for those relying on buses to continue their journeys.Hundreds of people gather at the junction from morning till evening. With no designated bus bay or stop, passengers are forced to wait close to the carriageway as vehicles speed through the stretch. Commuters said buses often halt abruptly to pick up or drop passengers, leading to sudden braking, unsafe road crossings and frequent minor accidents.The situation is worsened by the lack of shelter and basic amenities. Students, workers and other regular commuters said they are forced to wait in the open, especially during peak hours when crowding is at its highest. The absence of proper facilities often leaves passengers standing dangerously close to moving traffic.Concerns have also been raised over inadequate street lighting. Commuters said poor illumination after dusk affects visibility for both pedestrians and motorists, making it difficult to spot approaching vehicles and buses and increasing safety risks.Ashok Patil, a retired govt employee who frequently travels to Haveri, said ongoing flyover work at Gabbur Cross has added to the chaos. Diversions and narrowed carriageways have disrupted traffic flow, while large crowds of passengers further compound the problem. Many commuters said the combination of heavy footfall, poor facilities and traffic disruptions has turned the junction into a major public safety concern.Priyanga M, managing director of NWKRTC, said the issue has been repeatedly brought to the notice of HDMC and NHAI for construction of a bus shelter. Though the matter was discussed with the authorities concerned, no decision has been taken so far. Since NWKRTC does not own land at the location, a shelter can be built only if HDMC or NHAI provides space, she added.
