A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Kerala High Court by a Thrissur-based lawyer, questioning the toll collection at the Paliyekkara Toll Plaza located on National Highway 544 (NH 544).
As per the PIL, there is ongoing heavy traffic congestion on the Mannuthy–Edappally stretch of NH 544, especially near the Paliyekkara Toll Plaza. The main reason cited for this congestion is the ongoing construction work, particularly underpass projects approved by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
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The petitioner highlighted that due to this serious traffic situation, the Thrissur District Collector (5th respondent) had earlier issued an official order (Exhibit P1) asking Guruvayoor Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. (8th respondent) to stop toll collection temporarily. This action aimed to provide relief to commuters until proper steps were taken to ease traffic flow.
“A second order (Exhibit P2), however, was issued the very next day, which cancelled the previous directive and permitted toll collection to continue.”
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The petitioner has challenged this second order in court, calling it illegal, unjust, and against the principles of natural justice. It is also alleged in the petition that the cancellation order may have been influenced by political pressure or external factors, which goes against public interest and proper governance.
When the case came up for hearing in the High Court, the petitioner informed the bench that the toll collection is against the NHAI Policy Guidelines (Circular No. 17.5.82 dated 24.05.2021) regarding the management of toll plazas.
“However, the 8th respondent and NHAI replied that the mentioned circular does not apply in this case and stated they would submit their detailed replies (counter affidavits) soon.”
The Kerala High Court has now posted the matter for further consideration on 26th June 2025.
This PIL has been filed by Advocates Sreelakshmi Sabu and P.K. Subhash, on behalf of the petitioner.
Case Title: O.J. Janeesh v. Union of India and Others
Case No: WP(PIL) No. 35 of 2025
