Sambalpur: Demand for Toll Exemption for District Vehicles at Hatibari Toll Gate; Members of Paschimanchal Ekata Mancha Meet District Collector
Public Dissatisfaction Over Toll Tax Collection
Sambalpur: Sambalpur residents are expressing strong dissatisfaction regarding the toll tax collected at the Hatibari Toll Gate, located on the outskirts of the city. Many locals are protesting against this tax, arguing that district vehicles should be exempted.
Protest by Paschimanchal Ekata Mancha
On Friday, members of Paschimanchal Ekata Mancha demanded that all vehicles registered in Sambalpur district be allowed toll-free passage. Led by youth leader Surya Kant Panigrahi from Jujumura, a four-member delegation from the Mancha met Sambalpur District Collector, Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, and submitted a four-point demand letter.
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Key Demands of the Protesters
The Mancha urged authorities to grant toll-free passage for OD-15, OR-15, and locally registered vehicles based on address proof. They also demanded service roads in Hatibari and Phuljharan to ensure safer travel for villagers and students who face daily accident risks. Highlighting the financial burden on commuters, they called for toll exemptions for local vehicles. Following discussions, the District Collector assured necessary action.
Leaders Present at the Meeting
The meeting included several senior members of the Mancha, such as Dr. Pramod Rath (Senior Advocate & Advisor), Surya Kant Panigrahi (Senior Member), Bhavani Shankar Bhoi (Coordinator), and Manas Ranjan Bakshi (Chief Organizer). The Mancha reaffirmed their commitment to the cause, stating that they would continue to press for action until their demands are fulfilled.
