In a decisive move against misconduct by toll operators and their staff, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has barred M/s Riddhi Siddhi Associates following an incident of assault and mistreatment of highway commuters at the Sirmandi Toll Plaza in Rajasthan. This plaza lies on the Amritsar-Jamnagar section.
The reported incident occurred on May 5, 2024, involving toll plaza staff and highway users. NHAI swiftly examined the matter and issued a ‘Show Cause’ Notice to the agency. However, their response was deemed unsatisfactory, revealing that the agency had violated both contractual terms and NHAI’s Standard Operating Procedure. Consequently, NHAI has excluded M/s Riddhi Siddhi Associates from its list of pre-qualified bidders for the next three months.
NHAI’s contract agreements with toll operators strictly mandate that personnel deployed by contractors must maintain appropriate conduct and treat the public with decency and respect. Last year, the authority established a detailed Standard Operating Procedure to minimize altercations at toll plazas and ensure fair treatment for both commuters and toll staff.
Reaffirming its commitment to secure smooth and safe travel on national highways, NHAI emphasizes that it will continue to take strong action against any entities that engage in violence or misconduct at toll plazas.
