Recently I have noticed the growing discontentment in Jammu region which has the potential of turning into a spontaneous mass movement which would be difficult to rein in by the UT Administration. It will have its own implications if the burning issues are not addressed with utmost promptitude.
The foremost issue is levy of toll at Sarore toll plaza. People are genuinely aggrieved. The bridge over Tarnah nullah has been non-functional since 19th of July after suffering damage in flash floods. NHAI has not been in a position to restore it till date despite efforts. Even the temporary road constructed got washed away as seen in the photo shared in the media. People are taking 5 hours to cover 80-kilometre distance between Jammu and Kathua on this important section of Jammu-Pathankot NH which is strategically too very important.
Proviso to Rule 3(1) of the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008 empowers the Central Government to exempt the levy of toll on a section of National Highway by a notification. There can't be a more justified case than this one to invoke this provision at least till the movement of traffic on this section of Highway is normalised which is going to take time. There is no big deal for the Central Government if it exercises its power in this most deserving case. But it's a mere apathy of the authorities who have rather chosen to adopt the ostrich-like approach in this sensitive matter of public importance.
Authorities, break your slumber lest it's too late!: (Advocate Sakal Bushan shared his views on Social Media)
