The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has sought permission to resume operations of its toll gate in Lumshnong but was met with stiff opposition from the Khasi Students Union (KSU).
The toll plaza in Lumshnong was under lock and key several times mainly to put pressure on the repair and maintenance of the national highway. The closure was again made by the public supported by the KSU on August 8.
A meeting to dwell on the permission sought by the NHAI to reopen the tollgate was held today at the Deputy Commissioner’s office chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner, G. Warjri in the presence of traditional heads and members of the KSU, both the district unit and the Narpuh circle.
However, no officials from the NHAI were present at the meeting.
The KSU members were left dissatisfied after the meeting thinking that it was a meet to discuss about the atrocious conditions of the national highway and if there are any decisions made by NHAI to repair it.
KSU unit president, Streamly Suchen and circle president KS Suchiang said the decision taken by the waheh shnongs, the residents on August 8 to shut down the Lumshnong toll gate still stand, until the NHAI decides to restore and repair the deplorable road.
“We will not allow reopening of the toll gate. How can you (NHAI) collect tax and show no responsibility at all to repair the national highway, which has become a nightmare for commuters,” the KSU leader said.
