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Toll Fees Across India Rise: New Charges Implemented Today
The central government has implemented a toll hike at toll plazas across India starting today. The new fee structure will see an increase of three to five per cent over the current charges. This adjustment is based on the income generated by each toll booth. Initially scheduled for April, the hike has now been enforced.
National Highways play a crucial role in India's long-distance transport network, enabling quicker travel across vast distances. Most vehicles, except bikes, are required to pay a toll fee for using these highways. Toll plazas are strategically placed to collect these fees.
Currently, over 98 per cent of vehicles in India are equipped with FASTag cards. These cards allow for automatic toll fee deductions from the vehicle owner's bank account as they pass through toll plazas. This system streamlines the toll collection process and reduces wait times.
The central government adjusts toll fees annually based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). Guidelines stipulate that toll fees increase at certain plazas from 1st April and others from 1st September each year. However, this year's April hike was postponed due to elections.
As of today, June 3, the postponed hike has been implemented. In Tamil Nadu, for instance, the new fees apply to 34 toll plazas. The increase ranges from Rs.5 to Rs.25 per vehicle, depending on the specific toll plaza.
This hike means that travellers will need to allocate a larger budget for toll fees when planning long-distance trips. The current hike will remain in effect until March 31, 2025, after which another adjustment is expected from April 1, 2025.
The decision to implement this hike is influenced by indices based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This ensures that the toll fees remain aligned with economic conditions and inflation rates.
DriveSpark thinks
There has been ongoing public concern regarding the burden of toll fees on motorists. Various groups have called for government action to reduce these charges. The Highways Department may need to explore ways to address these concerns and potentially lower toll fees in the future.
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