Illegal toll system to be shut down in West Bengal: Chief Secretary

The West Bengal government has ordered the immediate shut down of all unauthorised toll gates and illegal drop barriers that are allegedly used to collect toll illegally across the state.

In an order issued by Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, instructions have been listed that any toll gates, drop gates, barricaded structures or other collection points set up for collection of toll tax or fees without formal approval from the competent state authority must cease operations with immediate effect.

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District Magistrates in every district have been tasked with identifying such unauthorised installations within their respective jurisdictions. They have been told to ensure that these structures are promptly removed or shut down and to take firm measures to prevent their reappearance without proper sanction.

The directive also makes clear that any levying or collection of fees at these unauthorised points must stop forthwith.

In addition to the crackdown, district authorities have been asked to compile a comprehensive list of all authorised toll collection points. The information is to include the name of the authority responsible for collecting the toll and the duration of the relevant tender or contract.

Officials have further been instructed to prepare a consolidated list of both authorised and unauthorised collection points and submit it to the under secretary by 12 noon on May 15.

The order states that it takes effect immediately and must be implemented on an immediate basis.