From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Jan 13: The HITO Jaintia Hills unit on Tuesday sought a toll fee exemption for ML-04 registered vehicles at the Ialong toll plaza.
In a memorandum submitted to Additional Deputy Commissioner B Blah, the organisation cited the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008, which stipulates that authorities are not permitted to collect toll fees from vehicles operating within a 20 km radius of a plaza. HITO highlighted the financial hardship faced by residents of Kyndong Tuber, Mynso, Muthlong, Phramer, Shangpung, Jowai, and surrounding areas who travel daily for trade, medical treatment, and employment.
The organisation noted that a similar exemption for ML-10 vehicles is already in place in Ri-Bhoi district and argued that local residents of West Jaintia Hills should receive the same consideration. It urged ML-04 vehicle owners to withhold toll payments if the exemption is not granted, characterising the fees as a violation of public rights. The group also called on the public to report any issues to the organisation to help determine further action.
