HC bars Meghalaya from collecting money on NH 62

GUWAHATI, Dec 12 ? In a significant order, the Gauhati High Court has directed and restrained the Meghalaya Government and its officers as well as non-government organisations and associations from collecting any money from truck owners and drivers at various check gates installed on the National Highway 62 until further orders. The order, made while disposing of the case (No WP(c) No 9654/2003) filed by the Goalpara District Truck Owners? Association, further instructed the Meghalaya Government to ensure that the truck owners and drivers were not harassed on PWD roads by any organisation or authority and no money was demanded from them without the authority of law. The petitioners had complained that over 24 illegal check gates on the NH-62 and the PWD roads besides four weigh bridges on the same route were indulging in illegal collection of money as well as collection of charges higher than the approved rates from the truck owners and drivers, who were often subjected to harassment and intimidation.