In a recent development, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has taken the decision to close the Thandi Khui toll plaza at Sarore and concurrently increased the user fee rates at Lakhanpur and Ban toll plazas.
The closure of the Thandi Khui toll plaza came into effect at 8 am on January 26, aligning with the simultaneous implementation of the revised fee rates at Lakhanpur and Ban toll plazas.
In an official order issued by Y P S Jadon, Project Director NHAI, PIU-Jammu, it was stated that the influence length of Lakhanpur and Ban fee plazas has been extended to eliminate the necessity of the Thandi Khui fee plaza.
“The fee collection at Thandi Khui Fee Plaza to be terminated simultaneously with rate revision at Lakhanpur Fee Plaza and Ban Fee Plaza as per approval accorded by RO NHAI, Jammu with effect from 0800 hours on January 26, 2024. Fee collection contract dated January 31, 2023, with M/S Ridhi Sidhi Associates, shall be deemed to be terminated with effect from 0800 hours on January 26, 2024. Revised user fee rates, approved by competent authority, shall be applicable at Lakhanpur Fee Plaza with effect from 0800 Hours on January 26, 2024,” the order read.
The decision to terminate the user fee collection contract at Thandi Khui toll plaza was made after issuing a 7-day notice for termination, as per the tolling contract dated January 31, 2023, with the Fee Collection Agency. The fee collection agency for Thandi Khui fee plaza accepted the termination notice, expressing their willingness to conclude tolling from 8 am on January 26, 2024.
In order to minimize inconvenience to the public, NHAI authorities took this step. It is noteworthy that last year, Jammu witnessed protests led by Yuva Rajput Sabha, demanding the closure of the Sarore Toll Plaza. The revised toll tax at Ban Toll Plaza is set at Rs 170 for a single trip and Rs 255 for a double trip.