Nagpur: The Opposition on Monday alleged in the
Maharashtra legislative assembly that there was a massive
corruption in the toll collection at roads in Mumbai, Thane
and Raigad districts, and demanded a statement from the Chief
Minister, apart from appointment of a probe committee.
Davendra Phadanvis (BJP) alleged during the question hour
that there was a corruption to the tune of Rs 5,000 crore in
the collection at toll-nakas (posts) by private contractors in
Mumbai, Thane and Raigad.
As the opposition MLAs entered the well and disrupted the
proceedings, Speaker Dilip Valse-Patil adjourned the house for
the rest of the question hour when 28 minutes were left.
The opposition had not been satisfied with the reply of
PWD (public sector undertakings) minister Jaidutta Kshirsagar.
Leader of Opposition, Eknath Khadse (BJP) said the
corruption figure could run into Rs 10,000 crore, and demanded
a probe by a high-power committee and a statement from the
Chief Minister Prithiviraj Chavan (who was present).
The Speaker however said the opposition MLAs could not
insist on a statement from the CM.
This led to a noisy protest and the opposition MLAs
trooped into the well of the house.
Earlier, replying to the question from Prakash Bhoir and
others, Kshirsagar said Rs 1,095.89 crore had been recovered
as toll from Mumbai-Pune expressway till May 31, against the
project cost of Rs 2,123 crore. The toll collection period was
up to April 30, 2030.
PTI
First Published: Monday, December 19, 2011, 18:16