Traveling on national highways is about to become significantly more affordable, especially for devotees visiting the esteemed Vaishno Devi Temple. A recent decision by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has mandated substantial reductions in toll tax, offering immense relief to regular commuters on National Highway 44. This directive from the High Court stipulates a dramatic 80% cut in toll fees at two specific toll plazas. The aim is to ease travel costs until necessary road construction is completed, marking a crucial step toward improving highway travel for millions.
Major Relief for Millions
The High Court’s ruling is expected to bring significant relief to countless pilgrims heading to Vaishno Devi and other travelers using National Highway 44. This decision is particularly beneficial for those who traverse this busy route daily, as it alleviates the financial burden associated with toll fees during a period of road maintenance and construction.
Mandated 20% Toll Collection
In a landmark decision, Chief Justice Tashi Rabstan and Justice M.A. Chowdhary’s bench ordered the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to collect only 20% of the toll at the Lakhanpur and Bann toll plazas. This directive is effective immediately and will remain in force until the completion of necessary roadwork on the highway, ensuring that travelers are not unfairly charged during the ongoing construction.
Prohibition on New Toll Plazas
Furthermore, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has prohibited the establishment of any new toll plazas within a 60-kilometer stretch of National Highway 44. This measure is aimed at preventing additional financial strain on commuters in the already impacted regions. The court has directed that any such toll plazas in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh be dismantled within two months, reinforcing the commitment to prioritize traveler welfare.
Background of the Petition
The petition for toll relief was filed by Sugandha Sawhney, who argued for an exemption from toll collection at the Lakhanpur, Thandi Khui, and Bann plazas. She highlighted that a significant portion of the highway—60 to 70%—has been under construction since December 2021, and the continuation of toll collection under these conditions is a violation of regulations. Her advocacy played a crucial role in prompting this important judicial review.
This recent judgment not only alleviates the immediate financial pressure on commuters but also sets a precedent for ensuring that infrastructure projects do not unduly burden the public with toll fees during construction periods. The implications of this ruling are vast and will potentially shape travel policy in the region for years to come.