JAMMU, AUGUST 27(KNS) Apni Party today held a protest demonstration here at Paloura against the toll tax collection at Sarore, and installation of smart meters in Jammu.

The protest was organized by OBC State President Bhagat Ram at ward number 59 in Paloura.

During the protest, the Apni Party leaders shouted slogans against the authorities for failing to address the demand of Jammuities to stop collection to toll tax at Sarore till the highway construction and widening work is completed.

“The matter is being delayed for one reason or other. The authorities are not working in favour of the genuine demands raised by the people,” said Bhagat Ram, addressing the protesters.

He said that the toll plaza is should be addressed without further delay because the toll tax collection is unjustified because the highway is in a bad condition and the traffic has been diverted through the villages in Kathua because bridges have developed damages due to the flash floods in recent rainfall and in Samba, the situation is more complex due to the ongoing work on the highway.

Meanwhile, SC State President, Bodh Raj Bhagat also opposed the installation of smart meters in Jammu that has caused uneasiness among the people.

“The people from all sections of society are equally affected by the adamant policy of the JPDCL authorities. Even after a series of protest demonstrations, the installation of smart meters continues, and reports of excessive electricity bills have worried many,” he added.

Both the leaders expressed their concern over the growing multiple issues in Jammu while urging the authorities to address the issues.

Prominent among those who were present on the occasion include Senior Vice President District Jammu Urban, Vaibhav Mattoo, Provincial Secretary Youth Wing, Vishal Jotshi, Senior Leader Apni Party, Shivani Koul, District President OBC Apni Party Ruler, Sath Pal, Kuldeep Raj, Vice President, General Secretary, Sonu Kashyap, Rishi Thekedar, Arun Mehra and others.(KNS)