Doda, March 4 – The Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Jammu has issued a circular prohibiting the collection of Lorry Adda fees on National Highways, following a complaint by MLA Doda, Mehraj Malik, regarding mismanagement and alleged irregularities in fee collection.
In a letter to the Chief Minister on January 4, 2025, Malik highlighted overcharging, harassment of drivers, and unauthorized fee collection on National Highways, despite these roads being under the jurisdiction of NHAI and BRO. He also pointed out irregularities in the tendering process, alleging that certain contractors had monopolized these contracts for over a decade, leading to unchecked exploitation and a lack of accountability.
Responding to these concerns, ULB Jammu issued a circular directing municipal authorities to enforce a ban on Lorry Adda fees for vehicles not using municipal infrastructure. It warns that contractors charging fees on National Highways will face strict action. The directive also instructs Chief Executive Officers and Executive Officers of Municipal Councils and Committees to ensure compliance and to remove any clauses allowing entry fees on highways.
Furthermore, the circular mandates that the e-auctioning of Lorry Adda contracts for 2025-26 be conducted transparently through the jkhm.procure247.com portal, developed by the J&K Housing Board in coordination with J&K Bank.
Welcoming the decision, MLA Mehraj Malik stated, “Finally action on my complaint. No Lorry Adda or entry fees on National Highway. This is just the beginning.”
The directive is expected to prevent illegal fee collection, ease financial burdens on transporters, and bring transparency to municipal revenue administration. However, its implementation on the ground will be key to its success.
The Chenab Times News Desk