Courtroom Twist: Bharat Road Network Gets Green Light to Resume Toll Collection

Kerala HC Allows Toll Collection at Paliyekkara, Bharat Road Network Ltd to Resume Operations

In a pivotal ruling impacting infrastructure operations in Kerala, the Kerala High Court has lifted the suspension on toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll plaza on National Highway 544. The plaza is operated by Guruvayoor Infrastructure Private Limited, a subsidiary of Bharat Road Network Ltd (BRNL). The suspension, initially imposed on August 6, 2025, followed public interest litigation citing poor road conditions and traffic congestion due to ongoing construction.

The division bench, comprising Justices A Muhamed Mustaque and Harisankar V Menon, acknowledged the genuine concerns of commuters but emphasized that prolonged suspension could lead to legal and financial complications. The court permitted toll collection to resume under the condition that the newly revised toll rates—effective from September 1—shall not be implemented until further orders.

This ruling enables BRNL to restore revenue flow from the toll plaza while ensuring that commuter grievances remain under judicial consideration.

Major Takeaways and Strategic Updates

- Toll Suspension Lifted
The Kerala High Court has revoked its interim suspension order, allowing toll collection to resume at Paliyekkara on NH 544.

- Rate Freeze Condition
The court barred the implementation of newly increased toll rates, ensuring commuters are not burdened with higher fees during ongoing roadwork.

- Operator Impact
Guruvayoor Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, a BRNL subsidiary, resumes toll operations after a 10-week halt, restoring a key revenue stream.

- Legal Context
The suspension was originally based on petitions highlighting traffic snarls and poor road conditions due to underpass construction and maintenance delays.

- Judicial Balance
The bench emphasized that while citizen concerns are valid, indefinite suspension could trigger further litigation and disrupt infrastructure funding.

- Future Oversight
The matter remains open for further judicial review, with the court reserving the right to revisit the issue based on road improvements and public feedback.

This decision marks a critical juncture for toll governance in Kerala, balancing infrastructure financing with commuter rights. For Bharat Road Network Ltd, it restores operational continuity while keeping regulatory scrutiny in play.

Sources: Bar & Bench, Mathrubhumi, Times of India, Onmanorama, ScanX News.