FCC

Toll Taken But Works Unfinished on Kerala’s 6-Lane NH Stretch

2025-07-11

Vadakkencherry–Mannuthy, Kerala, 8 July 2025 – Toll collection on the 6-lane Vadakkencherry–Mannuthy National Highway (NH) began three years ago, yet over 30 construction works, including essential safety measures, remain incomplete (@mathrubhumi).

The toll began on 9 March 2022, under an agreement with Thrissur Expressway Ltd, which pledged to complete all pending works within 90 days. However, fewer than ten tasks have been finished to date (@mathrubhumi).

Despite this, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) issued a completion certificate on 14 June 2024, and imposed penalties on the concessionaire. Yet it is commuters who continue to face delays and pay tolls, particularly since rates at Panniyankara toll plaza exceed those at nearby plazas like Walayar and Paliyekkara (@mathrubhumi).

Major Pending Works

Key unfinished items include:

Landslide protection on steep slopes

Completion of a service road along the NH

Safety upgrades at junctions linking local roads

Construction of 21 bus bays and lorry parking at three sites

Installation of proper drainage and street lighting

NHAI officials confirmed that lorry bays are being planned, but offered no timeline on completing the remaining tasks (@mathrubhumi).

Impact on Road Users

Motorists have expressed frustration, as they continue to pay tolls for incomplete infrastructure, impacting safety and convenience. The disparity between toll fees and actual amenities has sparked concerns over accountability and transparency.