NHAI for five fold hike in toll rates of Varappuzha bridge

October 9, 2013

By Express News Service – KOCHI

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) which has taken over the NH-17 from PWD has decided to effect a five fold increase in toll rates at the Varapuzha bridge. According to reports, the increased rate would come into force from Tuesday midnight. Those residing in the Varapuzha area said people manning the toll booth have informed them about the rate hike. A notice board has also been pasted near the toll booth. As per the notice, the rate for cars for a one-way trip through bridge would be Rs 25. It was Rs 5 earlier. For a two-way trip car drivers would have to pay `40 compared to the Rs 7.50 earlier.

The rate for buses and heavy vehicles have been hiked from Rs 15 to Rs 75. The NHAI officials were not available for comment. According to PWD officials, the road was handed over to NHAI for widening. As per the plan, the NHAI will lay a four lane road here. The rates were increased as per the NHAI manual. The Highway Protection Council has decided to launch an agitation against the decision.

LDF and BJP activists took out protest marches. Hasim Chenapillil of Highway Protection Counsil said the move by NHAI is improper. “As per NHAI guidelines toll booths must have a gap of 40 km between them. However the distance from Kumbalam toll to Varapuzha toll is hardly 25 km. There is no proper road in this stretch and people are being forced to pay without accruing any benefit. We want the PWD, National Division to control this road stretch. If the NHAI wants to keep the stretch they should not increase the rate. We will lodge a protest against the NHAI if they don’t change their decision,” Hasim said.

Source-http://newindianexpress.com