Mangaluru: Locals stage protest near Talapady toll gate over FASTag and toll charges issue

Mangaluru: Members of Gadinadu Rakshana Vedike and locals staged a protest near Talapady toll gate on Thursday, over FASTag being made mandatory and collection of toll charges from locals.

Protestors claim that it is not right to demand money from the locals who stay nearby. They also alleged gundaism by the toll employees.

Former member of Zilla Panchayat, Vinay Naik said, as the toll gate employees are from Andhra Pradesh they do not understand the situation and a few local personnel are not cooperating.  He warned of beating them and teaching them a lesson if they cross their limits.

He further said buses must not stop near toll plaza where there is no bus stand. Concerned officials must question the bus personnel.

Taluk panchayat member Surekha Chandrahas said, it is wrong to demand locals to pay toll as they are the ones who have sacrificed their land for the toll gate.

Siddique Talapady, president of Gadinadu Rakshana Vedike said, “The issue must be resolved within Friday February 19 evening. The old system must be continued for locals. If not, we will hold a fierce protest”