CBI probes toll collection on Delhi-Jaipur highway

CBI has started a probe in the alleged manipulation of toll collection data on Delhi-Jaipur highway by a company causing losses to National Highway Authority of India by several hundred crores. CBI sources said the agency has registered a preliminary enquiry against Pink City Expressway Private Limited (PCEPL) --a special purpose vehicle incorporated by KMC Constructions Limited, Emirates Trading Agency and IKSHU Infrastructure Private Limited.

It is alleged that on National Highway-8, Jaipur-based PCEPL was awarded work of toll collection for which it had set three toll plazas at Shahjahanpur (STP) on the highway. CBI alleged that during a surprise check, it found that while the company was collecting toll from the cars and motor vehicles, its computers were allegedly manipulated in such a way that they were showing toll lane was closed.

"It is alleged in the preliminary enquiry that by manipulating the computer system total toll collection was not accounted as per the agreement entered between the National Highway Authority of India and PCEPL. 

"It is alleged that PCEPL had made changes in the software database in such a manner that while users are paying toll for passing through, the system shows that toll lane was closed thereby causing loss to NHAI which may in the tune of several crores," a senior CBI official said. The sources said this is the only enquiry registered by CBI in connection with alleged irregularities in collection of toll in the National Highway Authority of India and no other enquiry is going on as reported earlier.

Despite requests, no comments were available from the company on the enquiry.