Archive · 7 Nov 2025
Himachal Pradesh HC Allows Toll Collection With Conditions
Imagine a toll booth on a road that's a bit broken.
The judges in Himachal Pradesh said the company that collects money at the toll booth can start collecting again, but only if they fix the important broken parts of the road first.
They have to finish these fixes within 10 days.
The road has problems like water making it slippery and some parts are even blocked by landslides.
The company that manages the road has already spent some money on repairs, but some fixes are taking a long time.
The judges also told the company to clean up mess on the side of the road.
Sometimes, people who own shops near the road make it hard to do the repairs, so the police might need to help make sure the work gets done safely and at times that don't bother the shops too much.
The judges want to make sure the road is safe for everyone who uses it.
Himachal Pradesh High Court permits NHAI to resume toll collection at Sanwara plaza from November 12.
Toll collection is conditional on completing essential repair and rectification works within 10 days.
The court ordered NHAI to clear debris from gallis and drains, emphasizing road maintenance responsibilities.
NHAI reported a Rs 15.20 crore maintenance contract awarded, with ongoing slope protection work expected to finish by March 2026.
The court directed urgent rectification of specific damaged stretches, including the Kandaghat approach and market road, and called for police assistance to overcome shopkeeper resistance to repairs.
- Who
- Himachal Pradesh High Court, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), State Government, Municipal Corporation of Shimla, local shopkeepers
- What
- The Himachal Pradesh High Court allowed the NHAI to resume toll collection at the Sanwara toll plaza with conditions regarding completion of essential repair and rectification works.
- When
- Toll collection to resume from November 12, with repair works to be completed within 10 days. Detailed order released on Thursday. Next hearing on November 11.
- Where
- Sanwara toll plaza, Himachal Pradesh; specific problem areas include Datyar, Chakki Moud, Kandaghat approach, Kandaghat market, and Boileauganj U-Turn.
- Why
- To ensure the highway is maintained in good condition, address damage caused by water accumulation and landslides, and resolve issues affecting commuters and residents.
NHAI Position
Court's Concerns
Toll Collection Resumption
NHAI Position
NHAI seeks to resume toll collection at Sanwara to recover revenue losses.
Court's Concerns
The court allows toll collection only after essential repairs are completed within 10 days.
Highway Condition and Maintenance
NHAI Position
NHAI has awarded a maintenance contract and completed a significant portion of slope protection work, with further work ongoing.
Court's Concerns
The court highlights the poor state of various stretches, including Datyar, Chakki Moud, and the approach to Kandaghat, and criticizes a six-year delay in project completion.
Obstacles to Repair Work
NHAI Position
NHAI reported difficulties in Kandaghat market area repairs due to resistance from local shopkeepers.
Court's Concerns
The court directed the state government to provide police assistance to NHAI and suggested off-peak hours for repairs to avoid hindering shopkeepers.
- Toll Plaza Location
- Sanwara, Himachal Pradesh
- Toll Collection Resumption Date
- November 12
- Repair Completion Deadline
- 10 days from November 12
- Maintenance Contract Value
- Rs 15.20 crore
- Maintenance Contract Duration
- 12 months
- Slope Protection Work Completion (Expected)
- March 16, 2026
- Revenue Loss (Sept 20 - Oct 31)
- Rs 4.53 crore