Study on toll restructuring expected ready by early 2010

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BUTTERWORTH: A study on the restructuring of toll rates which is now in its final phase, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of the year.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) would scrutinise the study.

“We need to figure out a method that will not burden the people, but at the same time suit the country’s financial situation,” he told reporters after attending a function at the Pokok Sena Farmers’ Market, here yesterday. He was asked to comment on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s statement yesterday that the government was in its final stage of restructuring toll rates for the country’s expressways.

Nor Mohamed said the government had to consider various aspects before making any decision on the matter.

“The government has many constraints. However, what is important here is not to burden the people,” he said.

In April last year, the government directed the EPU to come up with a comprehensive solution for the toll hikes which needed to be implemented every three years.

The study conducted by the EPU covered all aspects of expressway tolls, including the agreements involved and the effect of any suggestions on the economy. — Bernama