Residents of Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad are up in arms, demanding toll-free access to Khed Shivapur for vehicles traversing a mere 25 km stretch, out of the total 80 km. The fervent plea for equitable toll charges has gained momentum, fueled by a sense of injustice over the imposition of toll fees for such a short distance.
Call for Toll Waiver
The demand for toll waivers has been vociferously championed by citizens, who argue that it is unfair to levy toll charges for journeys spanning only 25 km. Particularly contentious is the toll collection for vehicles travelling from Sinhagad Road – Bhor phata to Khed Shivapur, prompting calls for immediate action to rectify the perceived inequity.
Political Intervention
Political figures, including Dhananjay Benkar, the Aam Aadmi Party’s City President, have entered the fray, urging the Chief Executive Officer of the National Highways Authority of India to extend concessions to vehicles bearing 14 licences. Benkar, along with Mauli Darwatkar of the Toll Naka Hatav Action Committee, and other AAP members, have issued a stern warning of protests if their demands are not addressed promptly.
Authorities’ Silence
Despite mounting pressure from citizens and political representatives, authorities have remained conspicuously silent on the matter. Official directives or announcements regarding toll waivers have yet to materialize, leaving residents disillusioned with the lack of response.
Disparity in Toll Charges
While a local pass priced at Rs 330 offers a 20 km radius exemption, concerns linger over the glaring disparity between toll charges and the actual distance travelled. Pune Toll Road Pvt. Ltd, under the leadership of Amit Bhatia, is responsible for toll collection in the region, further intensifying scrutiny over the tolling system’s fairness.
