Congress Demands Suspension of Toll Collection in Assam Following Fatal Khetri Accident
Call for Action After Tragic Accident
The accident occurred in the Nalgedera area of Khetri
Guwahati, Sept 1: In the wake of a tragic incident in Khetri that resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, the Congress party has called for an immediate halt to toll collection across Assam and a thorough evaluation of all toll roads in the state.
Debabrata Saikia, a senior leader of the Congress and former Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, submitted a memorandum to Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Monday.
“The Khetri accident is a heartbreaking illustration of the risks that road users face. This incident is not unique; other toll routes in Assam have also reported hazardous conditions, including potholes and inadequate maintenance, leading to frequent accidents while tolls are still being charged. It is unreasonable to expect the public to pay for roads that are unsafe and poorly maintained, which contradicts the purpose of tolls and the legal principle that tolls should not be levied on inadequately maintained roads,” Saikia remarked.
The Congress party is insisting on an immediate suspension of toll collection on all toll roads in Assam until they are repaired and deemed safe for travel.
Saikia has also requested the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to conduct an independent safety and maintenance audit of all toll plazas and road segments under toll collection in Assam.
Additionally, he has called for a comprehensive investigation into maintenance failures, recurring accidents, and contractual issues involving the NHAI, concessionaires, and independent engineers, along with compensation and immediate assistance for the families affected by the Khetri accident and other similar incidents on toll roads in Assam.
He further urged for the creation of a corrective action plan that includes timelines, designated responsibilities, and public transparency regarding compliance.
“The situation in Assam necessitates a comprehensive response rather than a fragmented approach. The Khetri incident exemplifies a broader issue. Similar accidents and poor road conditions have been reported on other toll routes in Assam, warranting a statewide suspension of toll collection and a detailed audit of all toll roads,” he concluded.