Nattika toll collection suspended after UDF protests

Toll collection at the NHAI toll plaza in Nattika, Thrissur, has been temporarily suspended following violent protests by United Democratic Front (UDF) activists. The protests were launched against the commencement of toll charges on the NH-66 stretch, specifically citing that construction on the service road and the approach road to the bridge remains incomplete.

Clashes between activists and police occurred as protesters attempted to block operations. The altercations resulted in injuries to some police officers and the arrest of several Congress and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leaders.

Public Works Minister P K Basheer intervened, directing the District Collector to halt collection to prevent severe traffic congestion. The Minister stated that a decision regarding the resumption of tolls will be made within a week after a meeting with all stakeholders to address the unfinished infrastructure and potential traffic impacts.