'Unfair' toll plaza location draws public ire
A toll plaza erected in the heart of Mianwali city has drawn widespread criticism from locals, who are now demanding its immediate relocation.
The toll plaza, originally intended to be situated at the district boundary, was instead established near the city centre.
This forces local residents travelling between Piplan and Isa Khel to pay a toll tax, which has recently increased from Rs20 to Rs60.
Locals argue that the toll plaza is a lucrative scheme involving billions of rupees, with no accountability from either political leaders or officials.
The new toll rate list has been prominently displayed, notifying citizens of the increased charges.
Citizens have urged authorities to move the toll plaza to the district boundary near Harnoli.
The Multan-Muzaffargarh road, one of the busiest and oldest highways connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad to Multan, Muzaffargarh, and Karachi, has become a significant concern.
Although the road was initially constructed to high standards by South Korea's Hyundai Company, recent expansion and carpeting projects were poorly executed, resulting in frequent damage and potholes. This has made the only road linking South Punjab to Rawalpindi and Islamabad difficult to traverse.
The toll plaza is currently located 10 kilometres from the city at Miana Khoh, with the district boundary extending 60 kilometres beyond it.
Despite this, toll rates were abruptly increased to 60 rupees, disproportionately burdening commuters. Daily travellers, including employees, students, teachers, farmers, and others, face significant financial strain, paying up to Rs100 for round trips.
Sajid Khan, Divisional President of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), criticized the location of the toll plaza.
"Toll plazas are typically placed at district entry points, but this one unfairly impacts residents of Kundian and surrounding areas, forcing them to pay multiple times daily," he said.
Khan also called for a standard toll rate of 30 rupees, consistent with other district toll plazas, and demanded clear display of rates at all toll collection points.
Ijaz Khan Pannu, President of the Civil Society, appealed to the Federal Minister of Highways, the Secretary of Highways, and the Chairman of the National Highway Authority (NHA) to address the issue. He demanded the toll plaza's immediate relocation beyond Kot Abdul Malik and called for exemption of toll charges for local residents with valid identification.
Despite repeated complaints, Deputy Commissioner Mianwali stated that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the NHA, leaving local authorities unable to act.
Residents continue to press for urgent action, emphasising the economic and logistical challenges posed by the toll plaza's current location.
As public frustration mounts, stakeholders are calling for prompt relocation of the toll plaza and steps to alleviate the financial burden on local commuters.