Toll Fee Collection Must Not Burden Public, Says Minister Jarkiholi

CH NEWS

RAICHUR

Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi on Thursday said toll fee collection should be implemented in a scientific manner without burdening the people of the district. He was addressing a meeting on toll-related issues concerning the Tinthani–Devadurga–Kalmmala state highway, where toll gates have been set up by the Karnataka State Road Development Corporation.

The meeting turned tense when Devadurga MLA Karemma Nayak walked out midway, visibly upset after the Minister reportedly refused to remove two toll gates located in Devadurga taluk.

“They said a decision would be made, but then claimed removal of toll gates would lead to government losses. That’s why I walked out,” she told reporters.

The toll gates in question are located at Kakaragal and Jalahalli, just 40 km apart. Locals say this violates norms, and they are particularly frustrated due to the lack of service roads or alternate routes.

“Our request was simple — provide exemption from toll until alternatives are created. Instead, we are told to seek grants or other projects,” said Karemma, also alleging that despite spending Rs 40 crore on road work, the stretch remains riddled with potholes and low patches.

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“We already protested earlier to demand removal of these tolls. This second meeting yielded nothing. The Minister backtracked on his word. I’ll raise this with our party leaders, and if needed, I’ll go on a hunger strike during the Assembly session,” warned MLA Karemma Nayak.