Nongpoh, Sept 12: The district administration of Ri Bhoi on Tuesday close down the Non-Tribal Commercial Transport Operators’ Check Point of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), located at Umdihar in Ri Bhoi District.
The check point, which had been in operation for several weeks, was known for collecting taxes of Rs. 200/- from all non-tribal vehicles transporting goods and essential commodities into the state.
This move comes in response to growing concerns raised by various stakeholders, particularly after it was initially brought to light by the Shilongmail, a local news channel. Several drivers operating in the state had voiced their complaints regarding this unauthorized check gate, demanding immediate action against its operation.
It was reported that the check point had allegedly been established without obtaining the necessary consent or permission from the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), raising questions about its legitimacy.
Responding to complaints regarding the legality of the check point, the district administration, the Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi, District, Arpit Upadhyaya, issued an order to close down and seal the checkpoint. The Executive Magistrate, who oversaw the closure, confirmed that it was carried out in compliance with the directive from the Deputy Commissioner.
This development has been met with relief by non-tribal commercial transport operators and the wider community, who had been burdened by the imposition of this unauthorized tax. The closure of the check point not only alleviates concerns about its legality but also ensures smoother transportation of goods and commodities on National Highway 6.
