MK Raghavan on Wednesday raised strong objections in the Lok Sabha against the initiation of toll collection on the Kozhikode bypass on National Highway 66 even before the construction work is completed.
When Mr. Raghavan raised the issue under Article 377, he brought to the attention of the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways what he termed an unfair and unjustified move. He pointed out that construction work is still underway on several sections and that the collection of tolls at a time when the bypass was not fully operational represents an unreasonable financial burden on the public.
Mr. Raghavan said the absence of service roads has severely affected the mobility of local residents. Due to the lack of service roads, two-wheelers and three-wheelers are forced to use the main road, exposing riders to serious safety risks. He also urged the authorities to end the practice of treating vehicles belonging to educational institutions as commercial vehicles for toll purposes and demanded that monthly passes be issued to such vehicles.
The deputy further claimed that the absence of proper sidewalks on available service roads endangers pedestrians, especially seniors and students. He demanded that toll collection be suspended until the project is fully completed and adequate security infrastructure is in place.
Published – 04 Feb 2026 20:17 IST