Congress Raises Alarm Over Potential Toll on KIIFB Roads; Kerala FM States No Conclusion Yet
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Synopsis
The Kerala government is facing backlash from the Congress-led UDF over potential tolls on KIIFB roads to generate revenue. Although discussions are ongoing, the finance minister claims no final decisions have been made yet. The situation is expected to escalate in the upcoming Assembly sessions.
Key Takeaways
- Financial strain prompts toll consideration.
- KIIFB roads may face tolls if implemented.
- Opposition strongly opposes the toll initiative.
- Former promises regarding tolls have been contradicted.
- Potential for heated discussions in the Assembly.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 4 (NationPress) Following reports that the financially constrained Kerala government is contemplating the implementation of a toll tax on all roads constructed with the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Board (KIIFB) funds, a significant backlash has emerged, particularly from the Congress-led UDF.
KIIFB is considering the collection of tolls on roads built at a cost exceeding Rs 50 crore, and discussions regarding the various methods of toll collection are currently underway.
On Tuesday, State Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal acknowledged that the government is exploring various measures to enhance state revenue.
“KIIFB is conducting assessments on such initiatives, but no definitive decisions have been reached concerning tolls specifically for roads and bridges funded by KIIFB,” stated Balagopal.
What has particularly angered many is the statement made by former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac in 2016, where he assured the Assembly that tolls would not be imposed on roads and bridges constructed with KIIFB resources.
Established in 1999, KIIFB serves as the main funding agency of the Kerala Government, aimed at mobilizing resources for crucial and large public infrastructure projects within the state.
Notably, it was Isaac who accelerated the KIIFB initiative, facilitating the mobilization of funds for the planned, efficient, and sustainable development of both physical and social infrastructure.
Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan expressed on Tuesday that should the Pinarayi Vijayan government attempt to impose tolls on KIIFB-funded roads, it will face strong resistance from the public.
“The current financial crisis in the state stems from extravagance, corruption, and improper appointments. From the very beginning, we in the opposition opposed KIIFB as it was a means for off-budget borrowing and detrimental to the populace. The prospect of tolls being introduced is a direct challenge to the people. We will not allow this under any circumstances,” remarked Satheesan.
State CPI-M secretary M.V. Govindan acknowledged that discussions are ongoing about this matter, but no decisions have been finalized.
“If the Centre continues to disregard the pressing needs of our state and constrains our finances, we must explore new avenues for revenue generation,” Govindan asserted.
As the Assembly prepares to reconvene, this issue is poised to provide ample ammunition for the Congress-led opposition to challenge the Vijayan government.
