HC directs NHAI to adhere to norms at Paliyekkara toll plaza

The Kerala High Court has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ensure adherence to norms regarding toll plazas at the Paliyekkara toll plaza in Thrissur.

The NHAI ought to ensure that each vehicle (with FasTag) passed the toll plaza within 10 seconds and that queues did not exceed 100 m, the court said.

The interim order was passed in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by O.J. Janeesh, seeking effective regulation of traffic and mitigation of congestion at the toll plaza. Referring to NHAI guidelines, the court said that vehicles must be permitted to pass through the toll booth without being charged, if the queue of vehicles exceeded the prescribed limit (of 100 m). It directed the NHAI to strictly implement the directive, failing which it ought to submit an affidavit explaining the reasons for non-compliance. The matter has been posted for further hearing on May 21.

The District Collector of Thrissur had on April 28 suspended toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll plaza, citing severe traffic congestion mainly due to the ongoing construction of an underpass on National Highway 544. The Collector also directed the NHAI to take prompt measures to ensure steady flow of vehicles, with police help. The order was subsequently withdrawn after the NHAI assured that corrective measures will be undertaken.