By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 26: Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) working president Thomas Passah has challenged recent claims made by the KHADC regarding the number of toll gates in the Khasi Hills, citing findings from a Right to Information (RTI) report.
Addressing the media, Passah revealed that according to the RTI response, there are a total of 35 toll gates under KHADC jurisdiction — 25 operated by the Forest Department and 10 by the Trade department. He pointed out that 19 of these gates are located in Ri-Bhoi alone.
Raising concerns over transparency, Passah questioned why the Trade Department was permitted to set up toll gates without an open tendering process. He alleged that contracts were awarded to a select few individuals, including five from Ri-Bhoi.
He further stated that toll gates have been established across all districts of the Khasi Hills, with the highest concentration in Ri Bhoi, followed by gates in West and South West Khasi Hills. He expressed alarm over the sharp rise in the number of toll gates over the past two to three years, questioning the intent behind their rapid proliferation.