The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has officially announced the toll charges for the newly developed Vengalam–Ramanattukara section on National Highway-66. Authorities indicate that toll collection is set to commence imminently, potentially within this very week, following the necessary media publication of the notification.
Toll Collection Mechanics and FASTag Priority
A trial run for the tolling system has already been initiated at the Pantheerankavu toll plaza. When full-fledged collection begins, FASTag will be given top priority for seamless passage. The ministry has implemented a differential fee structure to encourage electronic payments. Vehicles without FASTag will face an extra charge; a 0.25% additional fee will apply if payment is made via UPI, while those opting to pay in cash will be charged a hefty double the original toll amount.
Discounts and Passes for Regular Commuters
Significant concessions have been outlined for local residents and frequent travelers. Permanent residents living within a 20-kilometer radius of the Olavanna toll plaza can avail a special monthly pass for their light motor vehicles, including cars. This pass is priced at Rs 340 and allows for unlimited crossings through the Olavanna plaza for one month. The pass will be issued directly at the toll plaza upon submission of valid proof of residence.
For those traveling more extensively, a FASTag annual pass costing Rs 3,000 is available. This pass permits the holder to pass through any toll plaza across India up to 200 times. In a move to benefit short-term return trips, the policy states that for journeys made back within 24 hours, only half the toll amount needs to be paid.
Benefits for Local Commercial Vehicles
In a boost for local commerce, commercial vehicles registered in Kozhikode district and fitted with FASTag are eligible for a substantial 50% discount on toll fees. It is important to note that this concession excludes vehicles operating under a national permit. The contract for toll collection on this stretch has been awarded to Hule Constructions, a company based in Maharashtra.
The notification formalizes the user charges for a critical highway stretch, aiming to streamline traffic flow while providing structured relief to daily commuters and local businesses. The emphasis on FASTag aligns with the national push for digital transactions on highways.
