Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal (SP)

Bantwal, Jan 20: Accusing the authorities of collecting toll charges at Brahmarakootlu beyond the stipulated period and also claiming that the charges prescribed are unscientific, a protest was held on Tuesday January 19 near the Brahmarakootlu toll plaza by the taluk coordination committee of like-minded organizations with the support of various vehicles owners and drivers associations.

Addressing the protesters, former minister B Ramanath Rai, said that under the current rulers, development has become a mirage. He said that unscientific toll collection here has been giving rise to problems for the people. He charged the BJP of inciting the people emotionally.

President of the coordination committee, Prabhakar Daivagudde, said that in the past, vehicles could pass through the toll plaza for unlimited times in 24 hours. But now, toll is collected separately for going and coming. He said that the prescribed time limit for toll has expired here but illegal toll charges continue to be collected. He said that the people will continue to fight against the plaza which does not have facilities like emergency vehicles, toilet and other facilities which are mandatory.

A memorandum thereof was handed over to Anirudh, assistant technical engineer of National Highways Authority of India. The engineer promised to meet at least some of the demands.

Bantwal taluk panchayat vice president, Abbas Ali, municipal councillor, Lolaksha Shetty, and other leaders were present.