Dhaka, Sept. 11 -- On Sept 3, Sheikh Hasina advised the relevant agencies to impose tolls on all national highways.

"The government is firm on the decision. The prime minister herself has announced it," Quader told reporters as they asked if the government was adamant on the issue.

"Almost all countries in the world have a tolling system, especially for four-lane, six-lane and eight-lane highways. Why will Bangladesh be an exception?"

"The highways need to be maintained as they become potholed due to overload. They need to be mended," Quader said justifying the government's decision.

Quader was asked to comment on if there will be an adverse effect on the economy.

"You are travelling the same distance in three hours which you used to...