Manithaneya Makkal Katchi staged a protest at Karumathampatti toll plaza in Coimbatore district, demanding closure of expired toll plazas and opposing the bi-annual fee hike. The demonstration was part of a statewide campaign against toll plaza policies.
Coimbatore: Members of the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) staged a protest at the Karumathampatti Sengampalli toll plaza in Coimbatore district on Wednesday evening, opposing the recent toll fee hike and demanding closure of expired toll plazas across Tamil Nadu.
The demonstration was part of a statewide campaign by MMK, targeting seven toll plazas across Tamil Nadu. Similar protests were held at toll plazas in Paranur (Chengalpattu district), Pallikonda (Vellore district), Vikravandi (Villupuram district), Thuvakudi (Trichy district), Kappalur (Madurai district), and Nanguneri (Tirunelveli district).
Protesters highlighted that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has recently announced three new toll plazas in Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, and Krishnagiri districts, increasing the total number of toll plazas in Tamil Nadu to 70. They also alleged that more than ten toll plazas in the state continue to collect fees even after their concession period has expired.
The MMK put forth several demands during the protest, including:
1. Immediate closure of toll plazas that have completed their concession period
2. Discontinuation of the bi-annual toll fee hike
3. No establishment of new toll plazas in Tamil Nadu
4. Ensuring basic amenities at toll plazas, including facilities for immediate relief and treatment in case of accidents, as mandated by government regulations
The protest at Karumathampatti Sengampalli toll plaza began around 5 PM and saw a significant turnout of MMK members and supporters. In response to the demonstration, a large number of police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
As the protest continues, commuters are advised to expect potential delays and plan their journeys accordingly. The NHAI and state authorities have yet to respond to the protesters' demands.