Should Telangana Receive Toll Exemption on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada Highway for Sankranti?
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Synopsis
The Telangana government is advocating for a toll-free period on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway during the Sankranti festival. With traffic expected to surge significantly, this move aims to ease congestion and facilitate smoother travel for thousands of festival-goers.
Key Takeaways
- Toll exemption requested for the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway.
- Traffic surge expected during the Sankranti festival.
- Government aims to facilitate smoother travel for festival-goers.
- Coordination with traffic police for effective management.
- Special control room proposed for better oversight.
Hyderabad, Dec 30 (NationPress) The government of Telangana has formally requested Union Road Transport & Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to permit toll-free access on the Hyderabad–Vijayawada highway for the upcoming Sankranti festival season.
The Roads & Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy has addressed a letter to Gadkari, advocating for a temporary toll exemption on the highway from January 9 to January 18 to alleviate substantial festive traffic.
He highlighted that the highway experiences a staggering 200 percent increase in traffic during this festive time.
Venkat Reddy emphasized that Sankranti is a significant celebration in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, with traffic peaks starting from the weekend prior to January 13, predominantly flowing from Hyderabad to Vijayawada.
“The traffic typically returns after January 16, continuing until the following weekend, as evidenced by toll collection data from Panthangi, Korlapahad, and Chilakallu. This traffic surge, which is 200 percent of normal levels, results in significant delays at toll points,” he noted.
“Moreover, various bottlenecks due to junctions, residential areas, and ongoing roadworks contribute to traffic congestion. The state government is actively coordinating with NHAI/NH (MoRTH) and traffic police to facilitate smooth travel,” the letter stated.
The minister has urged for free vehicle movement from January 9 to 14 from Hyderabad to Vijayawada without toll charges to ensure uninterrupted transit.
Additionally, he requested that toll-free passage from Vijayawada to Hyderabad be granted in the public interest from January 16 to 18.
In a review meeting with officials, Venkat Reddy insisted on ensuring smooth travel for those heading to celebrate Sankranti. He called for a proactive action plan, taking past experiences into account.
He instructed all relevant departments to remain vigilant for three days before and after the festival. He mandated that heavy vehicles be prohibited on the highway during these crucial days.
Furthermore, the R&B Minister proposed establishing a special control room. He requested that 108 ambulances, medical teams, revenue officials, police, R&B, and NHAI be prepared for action.
He mentioned that he would personally ride a motorcycle along the highway for on-the-spot assessments.
“I have formally requested a toll exemption during the Sankranti festival, a time when thousands travel. If necessary, I will meet with him in person,” he stated.
Venkat Reddy also mentioned that the R&B department is willing to facilitate nominal toll payments if required.
He emphasized the need for planning to avert traffic snarls on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of the Telangana government's request for a toll exemption during Sankranti. This festival is a vital cultural event that impacts many lives, and facilitating smooth travel reflects the government's commitment to public welfare. While this is a temporary measure, it highlights the need for ongoing infrastructure improvements and effective management of festive traffic.
NationPress
02/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the proposed toll exemption?
The Telangana government is requesting a toll exemption from January 9 to January 18.
Why is toll-free movement being requested?
It's aimed at alleviating the significant traffic surge expected during the Sankranti festival, which can increase traffic by 200%.
What measures are being taken to manage traffic?
The government plans to coordinate with various departments, including traffic police, to ensure smooth travel and has proposed establishing a special control room.
