Tension mounted outside Margao Railway Station as locals rallied against the newly installed toll gate, levying charges ranging from Rs 2 to 50 based on vehicle size and duration of stay. The addition of bicycles into the toll system caused residents' discontent, intensifying opposition to this recently enforced fee structure.
Expressing palpable dissatisfaction, residents vehemently objected to bicycles being included in the toll charges. They demanded for the immediate removal of the tollgate.
Residents highlighted that rail services primarily cater to middle-class and lower-income households for distant travel. The toll rates were disclosed: Rs 50 for a tourist bus for 6 hours, Rs 100 for 12 hours, and Rs 200 for 24 hours. Mini tourist buses are charged Rs 30 for 6 hours, Rs 80 for 12 hours, and Rs 150 for 24 hours. Four-wheelers face charges of Rs 20 for 6 hours, Rs 60 for 12 hours, and Rs 120 for 24 hours, while three-wheelers incur Rs 15 for 6 hours, Rs 24 for 12 hours, and Rs 48 for 24 hours. Two-wheelers are charged Rs 10 for 6 hours, Rs 20 for 12 hours, and Rs 40 for 24 hours. Astonishingly, bicycles are also subjected to fees of Rs 2 for 6 hours, Rs 4 for 12 hours, and Rs 8 for 24 hours.
The disparate toll rates and the inclusion of bicycles in the fee structure drew vehement opposition from residents, who highlighted the impact on lower-income travelers. They called for the immediate removal of the tollgate.