Santoshgarh/Una, March 26 (Rajveer Chopra):- Public resentment over the hike in toll tax on the Himachal-Punjab border (Nangal region) came to the fore during a press conference organized by local representatives and the 'Ilaka Bachao Sangharsh Morcha' (Save the Region Struggle Front). Strongly opposing the increased toll rates, members of the Morcha termed the hike an "additional financial burden" on the common people and demanded its immediate withdrawal.
During the press conference, speakers stated that the toll tax hike is disproportionately affecting residents of the Nangal, Talwara, and Una regions—specifically those who utilize this route for their daily work, business activities, and commuting needs. They emphasized that this move is having a direct impact on the pockets of ordinary citizens.
The Morcha demanded that the government grant exemptions from toll tax to residents of the border areas, or alternatively, make the route entirely toll-free for them, in order to provide relief to the local populace.
The members issued a stern warning that if the government fails to revoke this decision promptly, they will launch a large-scale agitation involving sit-ins, demonstrations, and protests.
It is pertinent to note that this issue is not a new one. Prior to this, numerous protests and sit-ins regarding toll taxes have been staged on multiple occasions in the border regions, including Mehatpur.
All in all, this matter is no longer confined merely to the toll hike itself; rather, it is gradually evolving into a confrontation between the local public and the administration. If a resolution is not found swiftly, the possibility of a major agitation erupting in the region cannot be ruled out.