Shento V. Anto, a professional videographer from Palakkad, Kerala, frequently travels between Palakkad, Ernakulam, and Thrissur for work. He staged his protest at the Panniyankara toll plaza in Palakkad.
Many roads in India are in disrepair, with numerous ongoing construction projects causing delays and frustration for drivers. The Kerala High Court has stated that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) or contractors should suspend toll collection if they cannot ensure safe and smooth journeys.
Anto has experienced these poor road conditions firsthand, particularly during a difficult trip to the hospital with his pregnant sister. This prompted his protest at the Panniyankara toll plaza last week.
Having intentionally not topped up his toll payment card, the sign at the toll booth displayed "Low balance." When an attendant asked for payment, Anto refused, citing "poor service," and parked his Hyundai i20, blocking traffic. He demanded passage without paying.
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Traffic at the Panniyankra toll plaza, 6/2024. Photo: Manorama Online |
Toll booth staff refused his request. Management attempted to negotiate with Anto, who remained calm throughout the protest.
After 9.5 hours, the staff finally relented and lifted the barrier, allowing Anto to pass without charge.
According to DriveSpark, this protest highlights the frustration of Indian drivers and represents a rare victory against highway authorities. While Anto isn't the first to protest poor service, he appears to be the first to succeed.
My Anh
