The Bastara Toll Plaza, one of the busiest transit points on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway, became a site of fresh unrest today as local villagers intensified their demand for “Right to Free Passage.”
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The Core Demand: Led by village elders and local youth committees, the protesters represent 10 villages, including Bastara, Gharaunda, and neighboring hamlets. Their primary grievance is the exclusion of commercial registration vehicles from the “Local Resident” discount category. “Our tractors and small commercial pickups are tools of our livelihood, not luxury vehicles. Charging us every time we move produce is unjust,” said a protest leader.
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History of Friction: The Bastara toll has historically been a flashpoint. While the NHAI provides a monthly pass for private vehicles within 20 km for approximately ₹330 (as per current norms), local commercial operators claim they are forced to pay hundreds of rupees daily due to multiple trips.
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Impact on Local Trade: Villagers pointed out that the toll effectively acts as a “tax on local movement,” affecting the prices of milk, vegetables, and construction materials transported within the sub-division.
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Administrative Response: Police and district officials reached the spot to mediate between the villagers and the toll management company. While the toll authorities cited NHAI guidelines for the charges, they have agreed to forward the villagers’ memorandum to higher authorities for a specialized “local commercial pass” provision.
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The Ultimatum: The dharna was temporarily shifted to the side of the highway to avoid traffic jams, but the villagers have warned that they will make the toll “Free for All” (open the barriers) if a favorable decision is not reached within 72 hours.
