Man Arrested After Allegedly Trying to Run Over Toll Workers in Hapur Over Payment Dispute
In a shocking incident on National Highway 9 in Hapur, a 25-year-old man was arrested by police on Friday for allegedly attempting to run over workers at the Brajghat toll plaza following a payment dispute. The dramatic event, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, has raised serious concerns about road rage and compliance with toll regulations.
Escalation Over FASTag Payment Leads to Dangerous Confrontation
According to police reports, the incident occurred on Thursday evening when a vehicle traveling towards Delhi was stopped at the toll booth. The driver's FASTag registered an insufficient balance, prompting toll staff to intervene. As a long queue began to form behind the car, workers instructed the driver to move aside and complete the payment in cash to avoid further traffic congestion.
The situation quickly deteriorated when the driver allegedly lost his temper. In a reckless and dangerous move, he accelerated his vehicle directly toward the toll workers in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to mow them down. Fortunately, the alert workers managed to escape unharmed, avoiding what could have been a tragic outcome.
Swift Police Response and Arrest of the Accused
After the toll workers alerted authorities, police promptly reached the spot and arrested the accused. Garh Station House Officer Devendra Bisht provided details about the case, stating, "Govind Kumar is a fruit trader and a native of Chandigarh. He, along with his father, was returning from a relative's place in Amroha when this incident occurred."
Police have charged Kumar under BNS section 189 for resisting the law and have seized his vehicle as part of the investigation. The probe is ongoing to determine all circumstances surrounding the incident and whether any additional charges may apply.
Broader Implications for Toll Plaza Safety and Digital Payment Systems
This alarming incident highlights several critical issues facing India's transportation infrastructure:
- Safety concerns for toll plaza workers who regularly interact with frustrated drivers
- Challenges with FASTag implementation and insufficient balance scenarios
- Need for better conflict resolution protocols at toll collection points
- Importance of maintaining composure during payment disputes on busy highways
The viral video of the incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media about road safety, driver behavior, and the pressures faced by both motorists and toll workers on India's increasingly congested highways. As digital payment systems like FASTag become more prevalent, such incidents underscore the importance of clear communication and proper dispute resolution mechanisms at toll plazas across the country.