Removal of Temporary Toll Plaza at NH-66 in Arikady in Kasaragod District, Kerala

In a major step towards ensuring commuter convenience and public welfare, the Government of India has decided to remove the temporary toll plaza located near Arikady on National Highway-66 (NH-66) in Kasaragod District, Kerala, with immediate effect. The temporary toll plaza had been established as part of operational arrangements related to the development and maintenance of NH-66.

Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways & Corporate Affairs Shri Harsh Malhotra addressed a press conference at New Delhi today to formally announce the decision and outline the Government’s rationale of prioritising public welfare while pursuing rapid infrastructure development across the country. He emphasised that the Government remains sensitive to the concerns of citizens and is fully committed to resolving issues that create unnecessary hardship for the public. He reiterated that infrastructure growth must always go hand in hand with Ease of Living.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had received representations from the State unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Kerala, regarding the issues arising from the temporary toll plaza at Arikady. Following the receipt of these representations, and under the guidance of Minister of Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari, the Ministry conducted a comprehensive review examining multiple aspects of the toll plaza issue.

Based on this review, the Ministry concluded that the challenges faced by the local population warranted immediate corrective action. Accordingly, it was decided that the operation and fee collection at the temporary toll plaza near Arikady should be stopped forthwith.

Announcing the decision, Shri Harsh Malhotra stated that governance must remain grounded in empathy and accountability, and clarified that the decision was firmly rooted in addressing the genuine difficulties experienced by local residents.

The Minister further noted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Shri Nitin Gadkari, India has witnessed unprecedented progress in infrastructure development over the past decade. The Government has consistently undertaken transformative projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and unlocking economic potential across regions.

Shri Harsh Malhotra stated that the Government remains steadfast in its mission to build a future-ready India where growth is matched by compassion, and where every policy decision reflects the aspirations and well-being of the people. The removal of the temporary toll plaza at Arikady stands as yet another example of governance in action—listening to citizens, addressing challenges, and ensuring that development ultimately serves those it is meant to benefit.