- KR Bharat
- 2025-10-22
In a significant move, the Telangana government has ordered the immediate closure of all Road Transport Authority (RTA) check-posts across the state. This decision follows a series of surprise raids conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on the night of October 18–19, which uncovered a widespread bribery network involving RTA officials and private agents. The raids targeted 12 check-posts in border districts, including Adilabad, Kamareddy, Sangareddy, and Khammam, leading to the seizure of unaccounted cash amounting to ₹4.18 lakh. The officials were found to be collecting illegal payments from lorry drivers and transporters, often without issuing receipts for fines or overload taxes.
The ACB's investigations revealed that private agents were openly stopping trucks and collecting cash in exchange for allowing passage, with RTA staff colluding in these activities. In some instances, agents were found to be holding money on behalf of officials, indicating a well-organized system of extortion. For example, at the Boraj check-post in Adilabad district, ₹1.26 lakh was recovered, while ₹25,100 was found with staff at the Palwancha check-post in Bhadradri-Kothagudem district.
The timing of these raids coincided with the Diwali festival, a period of heightened travel, which may have contributed to the increased scrutiny of RTA check-posts. The ACB has stated that a detailed report will be submitted to the government, recommending disciplinary and legal action against the officials involved in the malpractice.
In response to the findings, the Telangana government has taken swift action by shutting down all RTA check-posts to prevent further corruption and to restore public trust in the transport system. The closure is expected to remain in effect until a comprehensive review of the RTA's operations and personnel is conducted. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption within government departments and underscores the need for continued vigilance and reform.
