Kozhikode: Toll collection on the Kozhikode bypass stretch from Ramanattukara to Vengalam is set to begin from October 1, according to officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). A trial run is scheduled for September 24 or 25 to ensure that the FASTag system is functioning properly ahead of the official launch.

Authorities confirmed that FASTag systems have already been activated on the route.

Who is eligible for concessions?

Residents living within a 20-kilometre radius of the toll plaza will be eligible for a concessional monthly pass costing ₹300, which can be availed directly from the toll plaza. Pass distribution will begin on the day of the trial run, and applicants must submit valid address proof to confirm their eligibility.

The annual cost for FASTag users is ₹3,000, allowing up to 200 trips per year under this plan.

The toll plaza is located near Koodathumpara, close to Pantheerankavu and has five entry and exit points to manage traffic flow efficiently. The plaza was designed to minimise congestion during peak hours.

The entire bypass stretch from Ramanattukara to Vengalam has been fully completed, and contractors will receive formal completion certificates in the coming days. However, work is still pending on some service road stretches--Malaparamba Junction to Pachakkil, near Nellikkode Azhathrikovil Temple, HiLITE Mall and Metromed Hospital.

A new soil nailing-based design for the Malaparamba stretch has already received approval, and work is expected to begin immediately.

At three other locations, land acquisition for service roads is still pending. Additionally, at the end of the Palazhi junction flyover, the main road narrows by about 25 meters, and this stretch is scheduled for widening soon, according to the contractor.

About other toll-ready projects

Besides the Kozhikode bypass, the Thalassery–Mahe bypass is also nearing toll collection. Though there was a delay after finalising the contract, the Kozhikode bypass construction progressed rapidly after it was initiated.

The only major portion of work that remains is from Vengalam (where the current bypass ends) to Azhiyur.