Residents have launched a strong protest against plans to commence toll collection this month at the newly constructed Chalingal toll plaza on National Highway 66, alleging that key infrastructure works, including service roads and drainage systems, remain incomplete.The protesters contended that toll collection could not be justified when several components of the highway development project remain incomplete. They have warned that they would not allow the authorities to collect toll charges from the public until essential facilities are provided.Construction of the Chalingal toll plaza, part of the National Highway 66 expansion project, is in its final stages. Once operational, it will become the second toll plaza on the highway after Talapady.While the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has not officially announced a date for toll collection to begin, indications suggest that operations could commence later this month, prompting residents to intensify their demand for the completion of all pending infrastructure works before the plaza becomes operational.The development follows the withdrawal of the temporary toll plaza at Arikkady in Kumbla after widespread protests.Work on infrastructure at the new plaza, including administrative buildings, vehicle inspection facilities, a pedestrian overbridge, lighting systems, and control rooms is progressing.However, residents pointed out that service road construction remains incomplete in several stretches along the highway. They also alleged that drainage channels and other stormwater management facilities required to prevent monsoon-related waterlogging have not been fully constructed. In some locations, damaged service roads are reportedly causing difficulties for local traffic and hindering access to commercial establishments.“Starting toll collection without providing basic facilities to the public is unfair. Toll collection should begin only after service roads and drainage facilities are fully completed. Otherwise, we will intensify our agitation,” said Bhaskaran Chalingal, who is leading the protest.A group of residents gathered near the toll plaza on Friday morning to prevent construction activities. However, work could not proceed due to rain. The protesters later met site officials and demanded that construction-related activities be temporarily suspended until their concerns are addressed.Mr. Bhaskaran said a detailed memorandum highlighting the incomplete service roads and drainage works had been submitted to the NHAI by email. He warned that stronger public protests would be launched if a favourable response was not forthcoming. Published - June 12, 2026 09:13 pm IST