Fri Sep 19 15:19:12 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

The Kerala High Court has announced it will lift the temporary suspension on toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll plaza on National Highway-544 in Thrissur, effective Monday, September 22, 2025. The suspension, which was implemented on August 6 due to severe traffic congestion caused by inadequate road maintenance and construction, will be lifted subject to specific conditions aimed at ensuring smooth and safe traffic flow. The court cited the need for regular inspections of the Edapally-Mannuthy NH-544 corridor as justification for the conditions.

## News Article:

**Kerala High Court to Reinstate Paliyekkara Toll Collection Amid Conditions for Highway Improvement**

**KOCHI – September 19, 2025:** The Kerala High Court has announced its decision to reinstate toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll plaza on National Highway-544 in Thrissur, effective Monday, September 22, 2025. The decision comes after a temporary suspension was imposed on August 6th in response to widespread complaints regarding severe traffic congestion along the Edapally-Mannuthy NH-544 corridor.

The suspension was initially prompted by petitions highlighting inadequate and poorly maintained diversion and service roads, particularly near ongoing underpass and flyover construction sites. In early August, the situation escalated when traffic hold-ups stretched for as long as 12 hours, causing significant disruption.

A Division Bench of Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Harisankar V. Menon stated that the lifting of the suspension is conditional. They emphasized the need for periodic inspections of the crucial NH-544 corridor to guarantee the safety and ease of commute for travelers. The court will specify these conditions, which NHAI will be responsible for adhering to, ensuring improved infrastructure and traffic management along the busy highway.

The reinstatement of toll collection, combined with the mandated improvements, aims to strike a balance between revenue generation for highway maintenance and a positive experience for commuters.

Read More