Karnal, June 30 -- Days after the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) began operations at the Bastara toll plaza through a multi-lane free flow (MLFF) tolling system, villagers living along the site have demanded the resumption of free travel provided earlier.

Residents said that before the introduction of the MLFF, they could cross the toll plaza free of cost by showing their Aadhaar cards as residence proof but the new system will impose an additional financial burden on them.

Shivank Rawal from Gharounda town said that several locals like him cross the toll daily for short-distance travel to Karnal city.

He said that paying Rs.270 toll for a double daily journey is an unnecessary expense and the government should exempt loca...