Hyderabad: The Telangana government is considering a key relief measure for travellers heading towards Andhra Pradesh during the Sankranti festival. In view of the massive holiday rush, the state is planning to suspend toll collection on the Hyderabad–Vijayawada National Highway for three to four days.
Proposal to Ease Sankranti Traffic Rush
State Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy is expected to write a formal letter to Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), seeking permission for toll-free travel during the festival period. The move aims to reduce long traffic jams and improve vehicle flow.
Toll Plazas Witness Heavy Congestion Every Year
Every Sankranti, thousands of vehicles queue for kilometres at major toll plazas such as Pantangi, Korlapahad, and Chillakallu. Although most vehicles use FASTag, the sheer volume of traffic forces commuters to wait for hours. As a result, travellers often face severe inconvenience during peak festival days.
Ongoing Works Add to Traffic Woes
Meanwhile, officials noted that traffic congestion could worsen this year due to ongoing flyover construction, underpasses, and highway expansion works along the route. If vehicles stop at toll booths amid this congestion, authorities fear that traffic on the entire highway could come to a standstill.
High-Level Review Meeting Planned
Therefore, the state government has proposed toll exemption to allow vehicles to pass without stopping at toll plazas. Minister Komatireddy will also hold a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat on Tuesday. The meeting will involve joint collectors of the Nalgonda district, police officials, and R&B department officers to assess traffic management plans.
Awaiting Centre’s Approval
If the Central government approves the proposal, officials believe that Sankranti travel this year will be smoother and more convenient for lakhs of commuters travelling between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
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