Gautam Adani Bags Controversial Toll Contract
• Adani Wins Bid for Toll Collection, Not Highway Construction
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
In a move raising serious questions, controversial businessman Gautam Adani has secured a 30-year contract for toll collection on NH-38, a 124-km stretch between Tiruchirappalli and Madurai. This stretch includes two toll plazas-Boothakudi and Chittampatti—and has been operational since May 24, 2013.
Highway Already Paid for, Yet Toll Continues
The highway was originally constructed in 2010 at a cost of ₹419 crore, financed through domestic and international loans. Since then, toll collections have skyrocketed, reaching ₹1,202 crore by November 2024—nearly three times the original construction cost. With an average collection rate of ₹104 crore annually, the public has already repaid the project cost with interest through toll taxes.
Projected Windfall for Adani
With the new 30-year contract awarded to Adani, toll collections are expected to generate between ₹5,000 crore and ₹7,000 crore, based on current traffic levels and a 5% annual toll hike. This decision has sparked outrage, as the highway’s cost has long been recovered, and the public continues to bear the financial burden.
Also Read: MahaRERA Faces Allegations of Corruption.
Criticism of Government Policies
Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari’s mantra, “If you want good roads, you must pay for them,” has come under fire in light of this development. Critics argue that extending toll contracts on already-paid-for infrastructure is an exploitation of public funds and trust.
Call for Accountability
As the Adani Group faces mounting allegations of fraud and favoritism, this latest contract raises questions about the government’s commitment to fairness and transparency. Citizens are demanding an end to what they call an unending cycle of exploitation for infrastructure projects whose costs have already been recouped.
The controversy surrounding Gautam Adani’s NH-38 toll contract exemplifies growing public frustration with corporate profiteering and governmental complicity. How long will the public continue to pay for what has already been paid?
Unmesh Gujarathi
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