Shillong: A shadow network is allegedly siphoning revenue at the Umling Toll Plaza on the Guwahati-Shillong National Highway. Operators approach tourist taxi drivers with offers for a monthly pass. This deal lets vehicles bypass standard FASTag deductions.
Drivers pay between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,500 to unidentified individuals for unrestricted access. One person caught on tape told a driver: "I will allow passage for a monthly payment of Rs 1,000 and seek an advance payment of Rs 500." These motorists allegedly use lanes meant for VIPs, two-wheelers, or exempted local vehicles from the Ri-Bhoi district.
Young men frequently control traffic in the VIP lane. It is unclear if these workers hold official authorization. Some touts claim local groups permit the scheme. No proof supports these claims. The National Highways Authority of India promised a probe into this exact issue last year. Drivers report the activity continues without interruption.
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