Thu Feb 06 16:01:51 UTC 2025: **Kerala Opposition to Launch Movement Against Proposed Road Levy**
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, February 6, 2025 – The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) opposition in Kerala will launch a public movement against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government’s plan to impose a levy on motorists using roads improved with Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) funds.
Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan announced the upcoming movement on Thursday, stating that the UDF’s next meeting will determine the specifics of the campaign. He criticized the LDF government for channeling funds from fuel cess and road tax to KIIFB, which he claims has been mismanaged, leading to the proposed levy to cover losses. Satheesan argued that this new charge would increase the cost of living for Keralites and place an undue burden on families.
UDF sources suggest the opposition may employ tactics similar to the 2017 anti-Silverline agitation, indicating a potentially large-scale protest. The opposition also believes there is internal resistance within the LDF to the road toll proposal, particularly given upcoming local body elections. The potential for voter backlash is seen as a significant factor influencing the LDF’s decision.
First Piper 