Silvester D’Souza

Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapura (MS)

Kundapura, May 30: Members of the Highway Protest Committee submitted an appeal on Thursday, May 30, calling for a reduction in charges at the Shiroor toll gate for locals.

The protesters held a meeting in the presence of the DC, people representatives, and toll gate officials. They stated that it was decided to provide a rebate in toll charges for vehicles within a five-km limit of the Shiroor toll gate.

However, toll gate staff are urging locals to obtain monthly passes for local vehicles. Therefore, the appeal has been submitted. Protests have already been held at the Hejmady and Sastan toll gates on the same issue. It is imperative that any sudden decision to withdraw toll charge discounts at the Shiroor toll gate be communicated to locals. Otherwise, public protests will be organised.

The protesters also expressed concern that the monsoon is about to arrive and the company that is carrying out the works has not taken any precautionary measures. Last year, rainwater had entered the paddy fields and houses that are beside the highway. Accidents are increasing due to waterlogging on the highway. These issues need to be addressed promptly. Locals should be given first preference for employment and other opportunities at the Shiroor toll gate.

The appeal also called for streetlights, service roads, signboards, a bus stand, and the fulfilment of demands in the Bappanabailu area. Toll staff were also urged to behave courteously towards the public. A one-month timeframe has been given to respond to the demands of the public.

Toll manager Rajan Nair accepted the appeal. Eminent personalities of Shiroor, the grama panchayat vice-president, members, people's representatives, representatives of various organisations, and officials of the police department were present.