Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Mar 8: Residents living near the tourist resort of Sonamarg are allegedly being forced to pay an entry fee at the Shutkadi toll post despite clear cut exemption, leading to resentment against the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA).
Criticizing the SDA, locals said they pass through the area almost daily, yet they are made to pay the toll under the pretext of sanitation charges, despite being residents.
“I live in a nearby area called Nilgrath, and I have to pay the toll. Why should I pay a fee just to use the road and reach my home? This is sheer injustice,” said Sajad Ahmad, a local.
Another resident claimed that while vehicles from other districts are often allowed to pass without paying, locals from nearby areas are stopped and charged.
“I fail to understand the logic behind this. I live about 15 kilometers away, but whenever I pass through Shutkadi, I have to pay the toll. The authorities must clarify this issue and stop charging us unfairly,” said Tanveer Ahmad.
Additionally, residents who temporarily move to Sonamarg for six months during winter due to connectivity issues are also facing difficulties, as they are made to pay the toll for routine travel.
“Some of us shift to Sonamarg for six months. Our daily routine involves going to college or school. Whether we use a private cab, a local bus, or a scooter, do we have to pay the toll every time we return home?” asked Basharat Ahmad, another concerned local.
The residents have urged the Deputy Commissioner of Ganderbal and the CEO of the SDA to immediately stop what they call the “illegal” toll collection from locals.
“This must stop because it is unfair to us. Do we really need permission from the toll post officials just to go home?” they questioned.
Meanwhile, the SDA has issued a clarification regarding the toll charges at the Shutkadi toll post, stating that residents and employees from nearby areas are exempt from paying the toll tax.
“Residents of Shutkadi, Sonamarg, Nilgrath, and Sarbal, and all the employees of other departments working at Sonamarg are not required to pay toll charges at the Shutkadi Toll Post,” SDA stated.
It noted that this policy has been consistently in place to support the local community and facilitate smooth travel for residents and employees.
SDA, however, further added that individuals involved in business or commercial activities near Sonamarg are required to pay toll charges. “This is in line with established guidelines to ensure the maintenance and management of infrastructure in the area.”
The administration has urged people to adhere to these guidelines and cooperate with the authorities at the toll post, stressing that any “concerns” or “misunderstandings” can be addressed by contacting the SDA for clarification.
Follow our WhatsApp channel