Bhubaneswar – In a troubling trend, toll plazas across Odisha’s highways are facing growing issues of disorderly conduct, with individuals allegedly using threats and impersonation to evade toll fees. This has resulted in significant revenue losses and increased challenges for toll plaza staff.
Misuse of Authority and Counterfeit Passes
Reports indicate that some individuals, claiming to be MLAs or political leaders, refuse to pay toll fees by misusing authority. The Manguli toll plaza on NH-16 near Cuttack, a critical entry point to Bhubaneswar, has seen a spike in such incidents. Sources reveal that counterfeit passes are being used regularly, allowing numerous vehicles to bypass toll payments illegally.
Toll Regulations and Exemptions
While certain individuals, such as emergency service personnel, are legally exempt from toll fees, authorities emphasize that no one else, including political figures, is above the law. Staff members have been instructed to enforce rules strictly but often face threats when denying toll evasion attempts.
Staff Struggles and Revenue Losses
Plaza staff frequently encounter intimidation from individuals refusing to comply with regulations. “We are powerless against these people. Many vehicles don’t even have the mandatory FastTag,” a Manguli toll plaza employee told TOI. Another staff member highlighted how threats of “severe consequences” make enforcing rules risky.
The Manguli toll plaza sees approximately 25,000 vehicles daily, collecting an average of ₹22 lakh in toll fees. However, evasion practices are costing the plaza an estimated ₹15 lakh every month.
NHAI and State Government Efforts
Odisha has 11 major toll plazas managed by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and 42 additional toll gates managed by the state government. Toll charges vary from ₹10 to ₹900 depending on vehicle type and trip frequency.
NHAI regional officer Veerendra Singh stated, “We have instructed staff to stay vigilant and are issuing passes for regular users. Cooperation from the public is essential to prevent revenue loss.”
Public Demand for Accountability
Social worker Alok Kar stressed the need for strict penalties to curb such practices. “The rules are equal for everyone. Violators must be penalised to control this behaviour,” he said.
Addressing these violations requires stronger enforcement of regulations, adequate protection for toll plaza employees, and awareness campaigns to ensure compliance from all citizens, irrespective of status or authority.
