Pics: Jeevan D’Costa
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Aug 22: The Padubidri-Belman-Karkala Anti-Toll Gate Agitation Committee will stage a massive protest against the proposed toll plaza installation at Kanchinadka on the Karkala-Padubidri state highway on August 24.
Suhas Hegde Nandalike, president of the Padubidri-Belman-Karkala Anti-Toll Gate Agitation Committee, addressed the media at a press conference held at the Press Club in Udupi on August 22. He stated, “A plan to construct a toll plaza at Kanchinadka has been proposed. In 2018, a similar proposal for a toll gate in Belman was cancelled due to significant public opposition. Now, a toll plaza is planned just 4 km from the existing Hejamady toll gate, which will further burden those who rely on this road. More than 40 villages have joined the protest, with support from leaders of all political parties, religious leaders from various communities, social organizations, industrialists, traders, and various associations.”
Sarvajna Thantry Balman, secretary, also addressed the media, saying, “We have visited every house in Karkala-Padubidri to inform residents about the impact of the new toll plaza. The villagers have fully supported our cause. While the construction of toll gates in areas needing development might be understandable, this state highway does not require such development as it does not connect major infrastructure. This road was previously under PWD but was handed over to the state after widening. We are seeking answers on why additional tolls are necessary and why there is a need for another toll in the region. The installation of this toll is a significant burden on the people.”
The protest will take place on Saturday, August 24, at 9:30 am in Kanchinadka, near Padubidri. The demonstration is expected to draw over 10,000 participants, including political leaders, religious figures, farmers, various organizations, associations, committees, villagers, industrialists, and businessmen.
The Karkala-Padubidri state highway, a 28 km stretch developed with state funds in 2013, is the site of the proposed toll collection center at Kanchinadka. This development has been strongly opposed by local residents and villagers, who object to the establishment of another toll plaza just 6 km from the existing one.
The press meet was attended by honorary president Lakshman L Shetty, treasurer Shashidar Shetty, former taluk panchayat member Dinesh Kotian, and Jaya S Shetty.