KHADC to take stern action against illegal collection by check gates: Chyne

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 16, 2020

The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has decided to take stern action against illegal collection of money by the check gates set up in the four districts, which falls under its jurisdiction.

After chairing an emergent meeting of the executive committee on Monday, KHADC chief Titosstarwell Chyne told reporters that strict instructions will be issued to all lessees and officials of the council in the upcoming meeting to be convened by the EM in-charge.

“We will also issue a warning to the lessees of the check gates not to indulge in overcharging of the fees fixed by the Council on different items. If they are found violating this decision, we will take stern action to the extent of closing down the checkgate,” he said.

According to him, there are allegations that some of the check gates are overcharging up to Rs 1,000 per truck besides making them pay two – three times while plying through the same road.

“Therefore, instruction has been given that trucks after paying in one checkgate will not have to pay in another checkgate located in the same road,” Chyne said.  

The KHADC chief also informed that the EC has also directed all forest checkgates to take seized trucks, which are carrying timber without any transit pass (TP).

“The officials of the beat offices should ensure no trucks are carrying timber without TP failing which suspension order may be issued against them,” he said.

Asked, Chyne said the executive committee will examine if there is a requirement for inquiry to probe into revenue leakage due to the alleged illegal activities in these check gates.

“As of now, we have asked the department concerned to look into the issue as we will not allow any illegal collection to continue,” he said while adding that his EC is trying its best to ensure good and corruption free governance.

According to him, the annual revenue collection by the council through checkgates is to the tune of Rs 20 lakh to 30 lakh.