The Supreme Court has once again emphasized that citizens cannot be made to pay for poor infrastructure. On Tuesday, a bench led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran dismissed appeals filed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) against the Kerala High Court’s order suspending toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll booth in Thrissur district.
The Case: Edappally–Mannuthy Stretch in Focus
The dispute arose over the deteriorating condition of the Edappally–Mannuthy stretch of National Highway 544. Despite being a crucial arterial road, the route has been plagued with potholes, traffic snarls, and long delays. In a recent incident, vehicles were stranded for nearly 12 hours due to congestion. The Kerala High Court had suspended toll collection for four weeks on this stretch, reasoning that user fees cannot be charged when access and quality of highways are compromised.
Supreme Court’s Stern Observations
During the hearing, the Supreme Court bench came down strongly on NHAI. Chief Justice Gavai questioned the logic of citizens paying Rs 150 in tolls when a journey of one hour ends up taking twelve. Justice Chandran highlighted that the situation was not merely theoretical, but one he and his fellow judge had personally experienced on the route. The court declared that potholes, gutters, and recurring traffic jams on national highways are “symbols of inefficiency.”
Citizens’ Rights and NHAI’s Responsibility
The ruling makes it clear that toll collection is tied to the responsibility of maintaining roads in good condition. If highways are not safe, efficient, and motorable, the right to collect tolls collapses. The Kerala High Court earlier held that while citizens are obliged to pay tolls, the NHAI has an equal obligation to ensure smooth travel. The failure to do so breaches public trust.
Broader Implications
This judgment sets an important precedent across India. It reaffirms that tolls are not an unconditional levy but a fee for assured services. Poor road quality, long delays, and unsafe conditions cannot coexist with toll collection. The verdict is a reminder for authorities to prioritize maintenance and accountability in highway projects.
Summary:
The Supreme Court dismissed NHAI’s appeal against the Kerala High Court order suspending toll collection at Paliyekkara toll booth, citing the poor state of the Edappally–Mannuthy highway. Chief Justice BR Gavai questioned charging Rs 150 for a 12-hour journey. The ruling reinforces that tolls cannot be collected for inefficient, pothole-filled highways and highlights citizens’ right to safe travel.
