Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Aug 24: It has been decided to hold symbolic protests at all the four tollgates functioning in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district from 8 am to 12 pm on September 20. The protestors will be demanding to complete all pending national highway work at the earliest. They will also be seeking to stop collection of toll charges if the works are not completed.

President of National Highway Agitation Committee, Dr Deviprasad Shetty, informed that a decision to this effect was taken at a special meeting of the committee held at Padubidri on Thursday August 23.

Hejamady tollgate - protest in February  2017 - File photos

"During the highway widening work, bridges have not been built at several places. Service roads have not been provided. A number of road bend works have been unscientific. Connectivity to internal roads has not been proper. Bus stands are of substandard quality. Street light system has not been in order. We will file public interest litigation against Navayuga Company, which has obtained contract for the highway widening work, in the high court," Shetty warned. He also demanded the concerned to refrain from collecting toll charges from local vehicles.

Kaup Divakar Shetty said that an agitation would be launched if toll is collected from local vehicles. President of Kaup block Congress Committee, Naveen Chandra J Shetty, pointed out to Hejamady tollgate as an example for unscientific work.

Convener of the committee, Shekhar Hejamady, Pratap Shetty h, Prakash Shetty Padebettu, president of Mulky Tourist Car Owners Association, Madhu Acharya, and several other dignitaries were present.