For thousands of factory workers and business owners in the Bhiwadi industrial zone, the Khijuribas toll plaza has long been a source of significant daily frustration. Those traveling between Bhiwadi and industrial units in Tapukara and Khushkheda faced not only frequent traffic congestion but also the financial burden of paying toll fees for short-distance travel. Local residents, industry representatives, and social organizations had repeatedly petitioned for the toll plaza to be moved outside the municipal city limits. In response to these persistent demands, the government had formulated a plan to shift the facility to Masit village, initiating the land acquisition process necessary for the move. However, with the relocation stalled for several months, the matter reached the Jaipur bench of the Rajasthan High Court.
Deadline Set for Administrative Action
During the hearing of a public interest litigation filed by Bhiwadi resident Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, the Rajasthan High Court issued clear instructions to the state government. The court directed that all necessary actions to complete the relocation of the toll plaza must be finalized within a maximum period of four months. The government informed the court that the process, including the acquisition of land, is already underway. The petition was disposed of after the court held the state government, the Rajasthan Road Infrastructure Development Corporation (RIDCOR), and the Bhiwadi Municipal Council as parties to the case. With this judicial mandate, there is renewed hope among the residents that the long-standing issue will finally be resolved.
Three Tolls Across a 90-Kilometer Stretch
The 90-kilometer mega highway connecting Alwar and Bhiwadi is currently burdened with three operational toll plazas, raising concerns regarding adherence to standard regulations. Guidelines stipulate that a minimum distance of 60 kilometers should be maintained between two toll points. On this specific route, however, the first toll is located at Khijuribas in Bhiwadi, the second is just 29 kilometers away in Tijara, and the third is approximately 31 kilometers further at Papri. Consequently, motorists traveling from Bhiwadi to Alwar are forced to pay tolls three times on a single journey, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Industrial Growth and Commuter Woes
The region from Bhiwadi to Tapukara has witnessed rapid industrial expansion. The route connecting Honda Chowk to Khushkheda, Karoli, and Salarpur is among the busiest in the area. Furthermore, the development of numerous residential societies along the Bhiwadi-Tapukara stretch has significantly increased traffic density. Employees connected to the local industries and daily commuters have been grappling with these additional expenses and travel delays for a significant period. With the administration currently in the process of acquiring land for the relocation to Masit village, local stakeholders are optimistic that their demand for a smoother commute will soon be met.
