Mangalore : A major traffic blockade on the NH 66 between Tokottu and Pumpwell proved too costly for 13 persons as they missed their flight to Dammam.

As per rules passengers have to be at the airport an hour ahead of the flight departure. However the 13 passengers who were caught in the traffic snarl reached the airport at 4.10  pm but were denied entry even though the flight was to depart at 5 pm. The people were from Badiadka, Kasargod, Kumble, Tokkottu areas. They have said their pleas fell on deaf ears.

The traffic snarl arose after a small vehicle was stuck on the Netravathi bridge due to a technical snag. The movement of the vehicles in a haphazard manner also aggravated the situation.

Moreover, as it was a Saturday there was quite a rush of vehicles on this road filled with potholes.