WITH the fuel price increase, one would imagine toll operators rubbing their hands in glee. Road users are a bunch of fellows with economic sense, it will tell them that it is cheaper to pay toll then to detour.  

But, the toll was increased, though not to the full contract amount to ease the burden on motorists. The Government had to compensate the toll operators for the difference.  

This is detrimental to road users and the country's economy as a whole. With the increase in toll, road users will detour to save on toll costs, though they may use more fuel.  

As a result, the Government subsidises more on fuel than on compensation to toll operators. This will become a never-ending chase, and everyone will lose.  

The Government has to stop this toll compensation and let the operators raise the toll charges to the scheduled level.  

Use the compensation money thus saved to improve/widen public roads, put up proper traffic/directive sign boards instead of relying on toll operator's sign boards, which only direct you to their toll.  

There should be U-turns before toll gates for motorists to have a choice.  

The toll operators must learn it is not the amount they collect that will improve their business but rather having more users.  

I am sure most motorists will not mind getting up earlier and spending a slightly longer time on the road if it means savings. The Government can help further by reducing the fuel price.