Term over, yet collection continues at toll plazas

Information received in response to RTI applications has indicated the lack of transparency in toll operations across the state.

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Subhash, state coordinator of the Haryana Soochna Adhikar Manch, had sought information from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways about the toll plazas in Haryana.

He pointed out the term of certain toll plazas had expired, as per RTI replies, but they were still collecting charges from vehicles.

"As per information provided by the authorities concerned, the Gharaunda and Ghaggar plazas began operations on May 11, 2009, under a 15-year contract. Hence, they should have closed their operations in May 2024. However, they continue to collect toll," he said.

The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) did not provide clear answers about the operational tenure of several toll plazas and the amount collected by the companies, he claimed.

"Asked about the amount of toll collected by the companies so far, the CPIO responded that such information pertained to third parties and could not be disclosed," he stated.

Alleging the lack of transparency, Subhash has demanded a high-level probe into the huge gaps in the expenses incurred on the building and maintenance of roads and the amount earned by the companies allotted the projects.

"Highways constructed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model are never truly handed back to the government. Once their stipulated period ends, contracts are renewed in the name of maintenance or expansion, ensuring indefinite toll collection under a never-ending cycle, which calls for a thorough probe," the RTI activist said.

Subhash had specifically enquired about Union minister Nitin Gadkari's statement in Parliament, in which he had mentioned that more than one plaza within 60 km was against the norms and that such plazas should be immediately removed.

The activist also sought a copy of the minister's statement and details of action taken.

"The CPIO of the ministry stated that no such statement existed in their records. They also clarified that as per Rule 8, sub-rule (2) of the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, if deemed necessary, an additional toll plaza can be established within a 60-km stretch with the competent authority's approval," Subhash said.