Sun May 11 01:33:00 UTC 2025: ## Toll Booth Controversy Erupts on Bengaluru-Kanakapura Road

**Bengaluru, Karnataka, May 11, 2025** – The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) began collecting tolls on the Bengaluru-Kanakapura road (NH 209) on May 9th, sparking outrage among local residents and commuters. The toll plaza, located near Somanahalli, charges varying fees depending on vehicle type, ranging from ₹85 for cars to ₹830 for vehicles with seven or more axles for a round trip.

The controversy stems from the incomplete state of the road infrastructure. Service roads, crucial for local residents to bypass the toll, remain unfinished, leaving commuters feeling unfairly burdened. Residents of villages near the toll plaza, including Kaggalipura and Somanahalli, are demanding the completion of the service roads before toll collection commences. They also call for improvements to the connecting Gandhinagar-Kaggalipura road, including proper drainage and pedestrian infrastructure.

Adding to the frustration, the four-laning of the NH 209, a project upgrading the Bengaluru-Dindigul corridor, is far from complete, especially near Bengaluru’s outskirts. Commuters who previously used this route as an alternative to the already-tolled Bengaluru-Mysuru highway now find themselves facing tolls on both major routes.

Pruthviraj K., a local resident, expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s not justifiable to demand money when basic infrastructure isn’t ready.” Prashanth Hosadurga of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha accused the NHAI of bypassing public consultation and called for exemptions for local vehicles. Frequent commuters echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the lack of viable alternatives and the unfairness of paying for unfinished infrastructure.

Despite multiple attempts, The Hindu was unable to obtain a response from NHAI officials regarding these concerns. The situation remains tense, with residents demanding immediate action from the authorities.

Read More