Need to abolish toll collection charges on NH-66 Kozhikode bypass in Kerala-Laid

Need to abolish toll collection charges on NH-66 Kozhikode bypass in Kerala-Laid SHRI M. K. RAGHAVAN (KOZHIKODE): I wish to draw the attention of the Hon?ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways to serious public concerns regarding the commencement of toll collection on the NH-66 Kozhikode Bypass, despite the project remaining incomplete. Major works at critical locations are still pending, while construction continues along several stretches, making the bypass unfit for full operation. Absence of adequate and continuous service roads has severely affected local connectivity, even two-wheelers and three-wheelers are compelled to travel on the main carriageway, causing serious safety concerns. This situation renders toll collection unjustified and is likely to cause congestion and public hardship. Educational institutions have been charged toll on the ground that they are not classified as non-commercial. However, educational institutions, whether Government, aided, unaided or private are not fully commercial in nature and therefore provision for issuing monthly passes to them is necessary. Further, the lack of proper pedestrian pathways along service roads poses serious safety risks, particularly to senior citizens, students and women. Hence, I request urgent intervention of Hon?ble Minister to immediately stop toll collection until the project is completed and adequate service roads and pedestrian facilities are ensured, in the interest of safety and public convenience.