Photo Source: Jan Kisan Andolan's X account
Centre writes to Punjab CS, flags Rs 1,638 crore loss due to toll plaza closures in state, urges immediate action
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 11, 2025: The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has expressed deep concern over the repeated forced closure of toll plazas across Punjab, citing a staggering financial loss of Rs 1,638.85 crore to the Central Government over the last four years.
In a letter dated April 4 to Punjab’s Chief Secretary, K.A.P. Sinha, Secretary V. Umashankar highlighted that the disruption in toll operations has adversely impacted the development and maintenance of National Highways undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
The letter stated that the period between October 2020 and November 2024 witnessed recurring shutdowns, causing a significant dip in revenue collections.
According to the letter, 24 toll plazas remained inoperative from October 17 to November 13, 2024, and could only resume functioning after the intervention of the High Court.
"These interruptions have not only hampered infrastructure development but also forced the Central Government to compensate toll collection agencies for theirlosses, adding further pressure on public finances," read the letter.
The Ministry emphasized that the uniform levy of user fees is crucial for sustaining infrastructure growth and supporting the national economy through Goods and Services Tax (GST) contributions. It called upon the Punjab government to ensure smooth and uninterrupted toll operations by coordinating with district administrations.
The communication includes annexures detailing the financial impact and urges the State Government to take immediate steps to prevent future disruptions, underscoring the shared responsibility of both State and Centre in infrastructure upkeep and national economic progress.