BJP MP Ram Raises Concerns Over Toll Collection on Unfinished NH-39 Stretch
BJP MP from Palamu, Vishnu Dayal Ram, has formally addressed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the contentious issue of toll tax collection at the Jorkat toll plaza on National Highway-39. This plaza is part of the ambitious Bharatmala Project, specifically the Ranchi-Varanasi corridor. In a letter dispatched to NHAI chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav on Friday, Ram highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among commuters who are being charged tolls despite a significant portion of the highway remaining incomplete.
Local Protests and MP's Intervention
Since the beginning of March, local residents have been staging protests against the toll collection, arguing that approximately 4 kilometers of the road under this project have yet to be constructed. Ram's letter echoes these public grievances, emphasizing that it is unjust to extract toll taxes when the NH-39 is still not fully operational. He specifically pointed out that the connecting road from Medininagar to NH-39 has not been built, further complicating travel for commuters and necessitating appropriate relief measures.
NHAI's Defense and Official Stance
In response to the mounting criticism, the NHAI has defended its position by referencing a central gazette notification dated December 10, 2025, which authorizes the toll collection. Sudheer Kumar, the project officer of NH-39 in Daltonganj, provided additional context, explaining that the delay in completing the 4 km stretch is due to pending clearance from the forest division. "Due to lack of NOC from the forest division for this particular stretch, no work can be taken up so far," Kumar stated, underscoring the bureaucratic hurdles impeding progress.
Toll Relief Options for Local Commuters
Despite the ongoing construction issues, Kumar outlined several toll relief options available to residents. Those living within a 20-kilometer radius of the toll plaza can avail a monthly pass priced at Rs 340 for private vehicles, offering a cost-effective solution for frequent travelers. Additionally, an annual FASTag plan costing Rs 3,000 allows users to cross toll plazas across India by paying a nominal fee of Rs 15 per plaza, providing broader accessibility and convenience.
The situation remains tense as local protests persist and the MP's letter seeks immediate redressal. The NHAI's adherence to the gazette notification contrasts sharply with the public's demand for toll suspension until the highway is fully constructed, highlighting a significant clash between regulatory frameworks and ground-level realities in infrastructure development.
