MLC Srinivas slams selective toll exemptions, demands equal relief for all Telangana routes

Hyderabad: BRS MLC and Legislative Council Whip Deshapati Srinivas criticised the Telangana government for offering toll fee exemptions on only select routes during Sankranthi, calling the move politically motivated and discriminatory.

He raised questions about Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy’s letter to the Centre, which sought a halt to toll collection at the Chillakallu plaza located in Andhra Pradesh beyond Telangana’s border. “Will Telangana’s exchequer cover this cost?” he asked.

“Rayalaseema routes ignored, Telangana commuters sidelined”

Srinivas noted that while easing travel for Andhra-bound passengers is welcome, the government failed to extend similar exemptions on routes serving Telangana districts, particularly towards Rayalaseema. He recalled the difficulties faced by local travellers during Bathukamma and Dasara due to toll congestion.

He stressed that providing convenience to settlers from Andhra Pradesh was not objectionable. However, he warned against neglecting the needs of Telangana’s own citizens. “People here deserve the same ease of travel for their festivals,” he said.

Calls for uniform toll waivers during all state festivals

Demanding fairness, the MLC urged the state to announce toll exemptions across all Telangana routes during local festivals. “Relief should be universal, not selective. Voters should not be divided for political gain,” he said.

Srinivas emphasised the need to respect cultural diversity without engaging in vote-bank politics, and called on the government to ensure equal treatment for all citizens regardless of region.