The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has terminated the toll collection contract at Bara Fee Plaza in Uttar Pradesh after toll staff allegedly assaulted a commuter on the Lucknow–Sultanpur section of National Highway 731.
The action follows an incident reported on January 14, 2026 and reflects the authority’s strict stance against any misbehaviour with highway users.
Contract terminated over assault incident
According to a press release from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, NHAI has cancelled the user fee collection contract of M/s Skylark Infra Engineering Pvt. Ltd. at Bara Fee Plaza.
The agency’s staff allegedly assaulted a National Highway user, prompting immediate action by the authority.
The incident has been termed a serious violation of the contract, which clearly requires toll plaza personnel to maintain discipline, decency and good behaviour with the public.
NHAI has noted that the episode shows a failure by the agency to properly supervise its staff and uphold contractual obligations.
Along with termination of the toll collection contract, NHAI has issued a show-cause notice to the agency. The notice proposes debarring the firm from participating in any NHAI bids or contracts for one year.
NHAI has also moved to forfeit and encash the bank guarantee/performance security of about Rs 5.3 crore that the agency had submitted for the Bara Fee Plaza contract. This financial penalty is meant to reinforce accountability and deter similar behaviour by other contractors in the future.
The highways authority has reiterated that it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and indiscipline at toll plazas. It stressed that ensuring a safe and secure commuting experience for all National Highway users is a core priority, and any breach of behaviour norms by toll staff will invite strict action.