Flyover effect: Travel to cost more; 11 toll booths on NH 66

Thiruvananthapuram: Although the newly renovated National Highway-66 is expected to reduce traffic congestion in the state, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) mandate is likely to cost dearly for Kerala commuters. 

National Highway-66 is maintained in Kerala by avoiding densely populated regions primarily through the use of elevated highways, flyovers, and bypasses. As per NHAI rules, if a flyover is longer than 60 metres, then ten times the length will be considered for the calculation of the toll rate. For instance, the Kazhakoottam flyover is 2.72 km. But the toll rate will be calculated for 27.2 km. The rules are applicable to all such projects. 

Construction of highways, flyovers, and bypasses is more expensive than constructing roads on the ground.

Earlier last month, a decision was taken to include the elevated highway in Kazhakkoottam within the limits of the Thiruvallam Toll Booth. As a result, the toll levied here has skyrocketed. The revised fare for a one-side journey in a car will now cost Rs 150 and Rs 225 for a two-side journey. 

In addition, a new flyover will soon come up in the area falling under Inchakkal's toll booth. With its completion, the toll rate along the section is expected to rise as well. If the number of flyovers increases toll rates too will increase.

Similarly, according to the rulebook toll booths can be set up in every 60 km stretch. It has been maintained that 11 toll booths will be set up on NH-66.