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

Toll collection on the Vadakkencherry–Manush National Highway in Kerala began three years ago, but over 30 construction works, including safety measures, remain incomplete. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) issued a completion certificate in June 2024, but commuters continue to face delays and pay tolls, particularly at Panni Ankara toll plaza. Key unfinished items include slope slope landslide protection, service road completion, safety upgrades, bus bay construction, and proper drainage and street lighting installation.

Introduction

A controversy has erupted in Kerala over the collection of tolls on an under-construction 6-lane stretch of the National Highway (NH), drawing sharp criticism from commuters and civil society. The road, which is part of the NH-66 corridor, was expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity along the state’s busy coastal belt. However, despite major portions of the stretch remaining incomplete, toll booths have already begun collecting fees — raising questions about accountability, road user rights, and infrastructure governance

Public Outrage and Legal Concerns

Motorists and residents have expressed frustration over being charged for a service that is not yet fully delivered. With large segments still under construction, detours, uneven surfaces, and missing service lanes continue to affect daily commutes. Public interest litigations are reportedly being prepared by local activist groups, citing violations of the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, which mandate that tolls can only be charged when substantial road works are completed. Calls for intervention have also reached the Kerala High Court.

Incomplete Infrastructure and Safety Risks

Travelers using the NH-66 stretch between Alappuzha and Kollam report severe bottlenecks, dust pollution, and increased accident risk. The lack of proper signage, lighting, and pedestrian infrastructure adds to the safety concerns. According to reports from local media the delay is attributed to land acquisition hurdles and contractor inefficiencies. Despite this, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has moved ahead with partial toll implementation.

NHAI’s Position and Response

The National Highways defends the toll collection under the “provisional completion” clause, which allows collection on usable sections of highways. NHAI claims over 70% of the road is motorable and argues that ongoing work does not significantly affect driving experience. However, critics argue that even the completed parts lack key safety and convenience features such as lay-bys, emergency lanes, and public rest areas.

Impact on Commuters and Local Economy

Local transporters, including goods carriers and intercity bus operators, say the toll adds to operating costs without corresponding benefits. The lack of full-scale infrastructure development also discourages tourism and small-scale business movement along the corridor. While the NH-66 expansion is a key part of Kerala’s future mobility plan, its current implementation has left many stakeholders disillusioned.

Conclusion

The premature toll collection on Kerala’s unfinished 6-lane NH stretch underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and better public engagement in infrastructure projects. While the long-term vision of enhanced connectivity is welcome, road users expect fair value and safety in return for their toll payments. With mounting public pressure and legal scrutiny, authorities may need to revisit policies around toll operations on incomplete highways. For ongoing updates on Kerala’s infrastructure developments, stay informed through local government bulletins and official project trackers.