National Highways Authority of India proposes 10% hike in Paliakkara toll rates

September 3, 2013

THRISSUR: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has mooted a 10% hike in the toll rate at Paliakkara toll plaza on the Mannuthy-Edappally stretch.

The proposal, if implemented, will see an increase of Rs 5-25 in the toll rates. NHAI project director (Palakkad) P Ramanathan said the revision was proportionate to the rise in overall price index in the country. “As per the agreement signed between NHAI and the construction company ( Guruvayur Infrastructure Pvt Ltd), the latter is eligible to hike the toll rate every year. We have submitted the proposal to our higher officials and we will discuss it with the state government after receiving the permission. The new rates will be implemented only after that,” he said.

The toll rates were raised in last March amid strong public protest. As of now, light weight vehicles pay Rs 50 for a single journey and Rs 80 for multiple passages. With the proposed hike, it will be Rs 65 and Rs 95 respectively. Small scale commercial vehicles pay Rs 105 for single journey and Rs 155 for multiple passages, which will go up to Rs 110 and Rs 165. Large vehicles pay Rs 335 for a single journey and Rs 505 for multiple passages, which will go up to Rs 355 and Rs 530. For trucks and jeeps, the toll rate is Rs 210 for single journey and Rs 315 for multiple passages, which will go up to Rs 220 and Rs 330 respectively.

Ramanathan said a decision on the proposal was expected in another 10 days and the toll rates of private buses will remain the same. Anti-toll protestors said the proposal to hike the rates was in violation of a promise by the chief minister Oommen Chandy that the rates would remain the same till the road operator completed the construction of service roads, installing traffic lights and other facilities.

Source-http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com