Toll collection on NH 66 at Nattika in Keralam suspended amid protests
The Kerala government has suspended toll collection at the Nattika plaza on NH 66 following public protests and concerns over incomplete road infrastructure. Officials have ordered a review of the site to ensure safety and traffic flow before resuming operations.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of infrastructure development, public accountability, and regional political activism in India.
The Keralam government on Thursday ordered the suspension of toll collection on national highway (NH) 66 at Nattika in Thrissur, citing the likelihood of severe traffic congestion as construction work remains incomplete.
The decision followed reports from the District Collector and the police that starting toll collection before the completion of the Kodungallur-Kaprikkad stretch could disrupt traffic and cause considerable inconvenience to commuters. Several works, including the service road on the Kodungallur-Kaprikkad section and the approach roads to bridges, are yet to be completed.
Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer directed the District Collector to convene a meeting with police officials, people’s representatives and officials of the departments concerned to assess the situation and take an appropriate decision. He also instructed the Collector to inspect the site and submit a detailed report.
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