HANM opposes setting up of toll gate on NH 44

FROM OUR REPORTER

SHILLONG, April 17: The Hynniewtrep Achik tiol Movement (HANM) has strongly opposed the proposed construction and installation of toll gate on NH-44 (Jowai-Khliehriat-Malidor) by tiol Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

The HANM has also submitted a memorandum to the PWD Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar in this regard.

Stating that the NHAI planned to install and construct toll gate at two spots within East and West Jaintia Hills districts for the purpose of toll collection from all types of vehicles plying on NH-44 at an exorbitant rate, is unreasoble and unjustifiable it will pose hardship for the people who are currently facing fincial constraints.

“The general public of East and West Jaintia Hills Districts are in poor fincial condition due to the ban on coal mining and its negative effects on other economic related activities. Moreover, the construction of toll gates will lead to many illegal and unlawful activities in the days to come,” Shaniahlang B Suchen, president HANM, Jaiñtia Hills District.

He further said that the people have also paid the road tax and the proposed construction will be an extra burden on the people.

“We have seen the toll gate collection at Ri-Bhoi affects the people fincially, we do not want the same plight to happen in Jaintia Hills,” he said adding “If NHAI go ahead with the setting up of proposed toll gate, we will not accept it.”

State PWD Minister Dhar however said that he is uware of the development as it is in the jurisdiction of the Central Government.

He however said that he would look into the matter and would inform them after one week.