As soon as the elections have concluded, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a 3-5% increase in toll rates across the country will be implemented starting today (June 3).

Initially, the increase was planned for April but postponed due to the elections, as per reports. It will affect 1,100 toll plazas across the nation. 

However, the increase in the tax will affect only vehicles other than cars and vans. The new rates will be applicable till 31 Apr, 2025.

This increase in toll rates is expected to benefit infrastructure developers like IRB Infrastructure Developers and Ashoka Buildcon Limited. However, the opposition parties and vehicle operators had protested against the hike, citing concerns that it would lead to a rise in prices of essential goods, ultimately burdening the common people.

NHAI deputy manager Rohit Kumar said, “Single journey rates for cars, jeeps, vans, and other light motor vehicles will be set at ₹150, while for round trips, it will be ₹230. These rates have been in effect since 2023.”

Moreover, rates for other vehicles have also been increased, with small vehicles and mini buses facing ₹5-10 increase per trip. Buses and trucks will see a hike of ₹15 per trip.

Rates for heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) and multi-axle vehicles have been increased by ₹15 for single journeys and ₹25 for oversized vehicles.

India has recently invested in the expansion of its National Expressway Network, with a total length of approximately 1,46,000 kilometres, making it the second-largest road network globally. Toll collection increased from ₹252 crore in 2018-19 to over ₹540 crore in the financial year 2022-23 due to increased road traffic and the expansion of toll plazas.

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