NHAI Takes Strong Action Against Toll Plaza Irregularities: 14 User Fee Collection Agencies Debarred for Violations

NHAI has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards in highway operations and toll collection.

In a landmark move to strengthen transparency and efficiency in toll fee collection, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has debarred 14 User Fee Collection Agencies for engaging in irregular activities at toll plazas across the country. This decisive action follows an intensive investigation and enforcement drive aimed at ensuring integrity in the toll collection system.

Crackdown on Toll Plaza Violations

The crackdown gained momentum after the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (UP STF) conducted a raid at the Atraila Shiv Ghulam Toll Plaza in Mirzapur district, uncovering serious irregularities in toll collection practices. Following the discovery of these violations, an FIR was lodged against the responsible parties, prompting immediate intervention by NHAI.

Subsequently, NHAI issued ‘Show Cause Notices’ to the agencies under scrutiny, demanding explanations for their actions. However, upon reviewing the replies submitted by these agencies, NHAI found them to be unsatisfactory and indicative of non-compliance with contractual obligations. This led to the firm decision to debar the agencies for a period of two years, reinforcing the authority’s commitment to upholding ethical and lawful toll collection practices.

Financial Repercussions and Security Forfeitures

To further ensure accountability, NHAI has also taken stringent financial measures against the defaulting agencies. Over Rs. 100 crores worth of ‘Performance Securities’ deposited by these agencies have been forfeited. This forfeiture is being encashed as a penalty for breach of contract, signifying a strong deterrent against future violations.

Transition to New Agencies for Uninterrupted Toll Operations

With the debarment of these agencies, NHAI is taking proactive steps to ensure that toll operations remain seamless. The defaulting agencies will be instructed to promptly hand over the management of the toll plazas to newly appointed agencies. This transition process is being closely monitored to prevent any disruptions in highway operations and to maintain the efficiency of toll collection mechanisms.

Zero-Tolerance Policy Towards Contract Violations

NHAI has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards in highway operations and toll collection. The authority has made it clear that any violations of contractual terms will be met with severe consequences, including debarment and financial penalties. This zero-tolerance approach aims to uphold public trust in highway management and ensure a fair, transparent, and efficient toll collection system.

Going forward, NHAI will continue to enhance surveillance and monitoring at toll plazas to prevent such irregularities. The authority is also exploring advanced technological solutions to improve the security and efficiency of the toll collection process, minimizing the scope for fraudulent activities.

Ensuring Accountability and Public Trust

This recent enforcement action serves as a strong warning to all agencies involved in toll collection. NHAI remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that highway users are provided with fair and seamless services. By taking decisive action against defaulters, the authority is sending a clear message that any deviation from contractual norms will be met with strict punitive measures.

As India continues to develop its road infrastructure, NHAI's rigorous enforcement of ethical toll collection practices will play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and integrity of the country’s highway network. Road users can rest assured that the government remains committed to transparency, accountability, and service excellence in national highway operations.