Guwahati, Aug 23: Gaurav Gogoi, the president of the Assam Congress, has reached out to Union Highway Minister Nitin Gadkari, requesting a halt to toll collection on state highways until necessary repairs are completed.

As the deputy leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha, Gogoi highlighted the growing discontent among residents regarding toll fees on highways that are in a "deplorable" state.

In his letter, which was shared with the media, he pointed out that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) continues to charge tolls on critical segments of NH-27 and NH-37, despite the presence of deep potholes, uneven road surfaces, and frequent waterlogging.

He stated, "These hazardous conditions pose risks to lives, damage vehicles, and lead to significant delays. The toll plazas located between Sonapur-Raha (NH-27/NH-37) and Baihata Chariali (Madanpur)-Nalbari (Galia toll plaza) have seen numerous accidents and extended travel times."

Gogoi, who represents Jorhat in Parliament, noted that protests have erupted against both current and planned toll plazas, with citizens expressing their frustration over rising toll fees amid challenges such as flooding, unemployment, and inflation.

He mentioned that truckers and transporters, essential to Assam's agricultural economy, are facing unsustainable costs that are driving up the prices of essential goods, further straining household budgets.

Gogoi emphasized the urgency of the situation, referencing a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding NH-544 in Kerala, which stated that citizens should not be forced to pay tolls for navigating roads filled with potholes and other inefficiencies.

He reiterated that the basis for toll collection is to provide safe and regulated access, and failing to do so undermines the legitimacy of the toll system.

According to the Supreme Court's ruling, tolls should not be collected until safe and unobstructed travel is restored.

Gogoi expressed disappointment that despite previously raising concerns about NH-37, the conditions on both NH-27 and NH-37 have deteriorated further, necessitating immediate action.

He urged Gadkari to perform an audit of all toll plazas in the state to ensure they meet maintenance standards.