NH-66 Nattika Toll Collection Suspended After Violent Protest, Here’s What Triggered the Row

Toll collection at the Nattika plaza on NH-66 was temporarily suspended on Thursday after a protest by the Congress-led UDF over unfinished highway works led to a clash between protesters and police.

The protest began around 7:30 am when Congress and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) workers marched to the plaza and attempted to block toll operations. Police intervened and arrested and removed some protesters. KPCC general secretary Jose Valloor was among those arrested. Police said some personnel were injured, while protesters alleged that activists were manhandled.

The agitation later saw the participation of CPM and DYFI workers, with police using a water cannon as protests intensified. A large police contingent remained deployed at the plaza to prevent further clashes. The LDF had also announced protest programmes against the toll collection, including a CPI march.

The temporary suspension was ordered by Kerala Public Works Minister P K Basheer after reports from the District Collector and police indicated that incomplete works on the Kodungallur-Kappirikkad stretch could cause traffic congestion. The minister directed officials to review the situation before a decision on resuming collection.

The dispute centres on pending works along the 53.8-km corridor. Protesters have cited incomplete bridges at Chettuva, Orumanayur, Kandassankadavu and Kodungallur, besides unfinished approach roads and service lanes near Edamuttam and Moonnupeedika. Concerns have also been raised over drainage, signals, lighting and other associated works.

The National Highways Authority of India had scheduled toll collection from October 8, and operations initially began through FASTag lanes. The notified toll for cars, jeeps and vans was Rs 120 for a one-way trip and Rs 180 for a return journey. A monthly local pass of Rs 360 was also notified for non-commercial vehicles residing within 20 km of the plaza.

Following the suspension, the district administration is expected to consult police, local representatives and concerned departments before the next decision. The review will focus on pending works and traffic management on the affected stretch at Nattika.