NHAI suspends 14 toll agencies for collection irregularities

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has banned 14 toll collection agencies from operating due to irregularities in fee collection. This decision follows investigations and a formal complaint filed by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force. The raids were conducted at the Atraila Shiv Ghulam toll plaza in Mirzapur district. NHAI officials stated that the responses from the agencies were unsatisfactory after they received a "Show Cause Notice" regarding their practices. As a result, these agencies will be debarred for two years for violating their contract terms. NHAI has also forfeited over Rs 100 crore in performance securities from these agencies as punishment for their actions. In an official announcement, NHAI stated that it will notify the defaulting agencies to transfer the toll plazas to a new agency they will appoint.