NHAI likely to increase toll tax across India from next month – details

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), starting from April 1, is expected to increase the toll rates, leading to higher charges for persons traveling on national highways (NHs) and expressways. According to reports, toll prices are expected to increase by 5% to 10%.

Earlier it was reported that the central government is considering replacing toll plazas with number plate cameras. In an interview, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is planning to do away with all toll plazas on national highways and rely on Automatic Number Plate Reader (ANPR) cameras.

As per the National Highways Fee (Fixation and Collection of Rates) Rules, 2008, the fee rates should be revised from 1st April every year. The road transport ministry is set to examine the proposals by the end of this month, and the rates may be approved after due consideration.

Toll rates for cars and light vehicles are likely to increase by 5%, and for other heavy vehicles, it may go up to 10%. Toll rates are expected to increase for the recently launched Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. Currently, the toll on the newly opened section of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is Rs 2.19 per km, and will increase by around 10%.

Currently, around 20,000 vehicles travel on the expressway every day. This figure is expected to increase to 50,000-60,000 in the next six months. Additionally, the toll rates for Eastern Peripheral Expressway and Delhi-Meerut Expressway are expected to increase.

In addition, monthly passes issued to individuals living within 20 km of toll plazas, which are generally less expensive, are expected to increase by 10%.

With the new toll rates, NHAI aims to increase revenue and provide better maintenance and operational services to road users. However, the move is likely to face opposition from citizens and opposition parties.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Why is NHAI increasing toll rates?

NHAI aims to increase revenue to provide better maintenance and operational services to road users.

Q2: How will the toll plazas be replaced?
The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is planning to do away with toll plazas on national highways and rely on Automatic Number Plate Reader (ANPR) cameras.

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