As a result of lobbying efforts from MK (Likud) Ofir Akonis, who chairs the Economics Affairs Committee, the committee has evaded a request from the treasury to charge toll on the southern stretch of the Rabin Highway, known more commonly as Kvish 6. The treasury wants to levy a NIS 2.5 toll for a 35km (21 miles) stretch of road but Akonis maintains the entire road was built with taxpayer funds and therefore there is no justification for the move. Keeping the southern area of the road free he insists will further contribute to efforts to encourage development and infrastructure in the development areas.

Beersheva Deputy Mayor Tal El al also objects to levying a toll in the area but Kish 6 director Udi Savion insists the toll is necessary, even a reduced fare.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)