Jammu, February 25, 2025 – The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has ruled in favor of public interest by directing the authorities to reduce toll taxes at Lakhanpur and Bann Toll Plazas. The decision follows a petition filed by Sugandha Sawhney, who challenged the collection of toll fees on a highway under extensive construction.
The petitioner argued that charging toll fees for an
incomplete road project was unjust. The court noted that National Highway-44,
spanning from Pathankot to Udhampur, is undergoing significant upgrades under
the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway project. The judges highlighted the poor
condition of the highway, citing frequent diversions, increased travel time,
and additional fuel costs incurred by commuters. In a landmark decision, the
court ordered: Immediate reduction of toll fees at Lakhanpur and Bann Toll
Plazas to 20% of the earlier rates until the highway is fully operational.
Strict enforcement of a 60 km minimum distance rule between
two toll plazas, leading to the potential removal of illegally placed toll
booths. A review of all toll fees across J&K and Ladakh to ensure fairness.
A ban on hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds at toll plazas.
The ruling comes after the government increased toll fees at
key locations following the closure of Thandi Khui Toll Plaza. The court
condemned the move, stating that the public should not bear additional
financial burdens for an incomplete project. The judgment has been forwarded to
the Union Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways for immediate action.
This decision is expected to bring significant relief to
thousands of daily commuters and pilgrims traveling to Vaishno Devi.
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Copy of Judgement.
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