Wed Jan 14 20:57:09 UTC 2026: # Kumbala-Arikkady Toll Plaza Protest Intensifies as Talks Fail

The Story: Protests against toll collection at the Kumbala-Arikkady toll plaza are escalating in Kasaragod, India. A meeting between District Collector K. Inbasekar and five MLAs from the district failed to resolve the issue, with National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials insisting that toll collection would continue under the existing system. Manjeswaram MLA A.K.M Ashraf‘s protest near the Kumbala toll gate has entered its second day, with protesters vowing to continue their agitation until the commuter issues are addressed.

Key Points:

  • Protests against toll collection at the Kumbala-Arikkady toll plaza are ongoing.
  • A meeting between the District Collector and MLAs ended without an agreement.
  • NHAI officials maintain that toll collection will continue.
  • MLA A.K.M Ashraf is leading a protest that has entered its second day.
  • Protesters demand resolution of commuter issues.

Key Takeaways:

  • Local dissatisfaction with toll collection remains high in the Kasaragod district.
  • Negotiations between local representatives and the NHAI have stalled.
  • The protests highlight a potential conflict between national infrastructure development goals and local community concerns.
  • Continued protests could disrupt transportation and put pressure on local authorities.
  • The situation underscores the need for transparent and equitable toll collection policies.

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