In a move that affects motorists across India, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a five percent increase in toll rates on expressways, effective from June 3. This decision comes after the annual exercise of revising toll rates, typically done on April 1, was postponed due to the Lok Sabha elections. With this increase, commuters utilizing expressways will see a slight rise in their travel expenses.
Toll Revision Process
Toll rates on national highways are subject to periodic revisions, often linked to changes in the Wholesale Price Index (CPI)-based inflation. The NHAI oversees this process, adhering to the National Highway Fee (Determination and Collection of Rates) Rules, 2008. The country boasts approximately 855 toll plazas on national highways, with 675 being publicly funded and 180 operated by concessionaires.
Impact on Commuters
This increase in toll rates will directly affect commuters’ wallets, particularly those traveling long distances on expressways. For instance, individuals journeying from Delhi to Meerut or Delhi to Hapur can expect to pay approximately eight rupees more for their trip. Similarly, travelers passing through the Luharli toll between Ghaziabad and Aligarh will face an additional charge of about seven rupees.
Toll Collection Responsibility
Private companies are responsible for toll collection on several key expressways, including the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Eastern Peripheral Expressway, Delhi-Hapur Expressway, and Ghaziabad-Aligarh Highway. Despite this, the NHAI retains the authority to determine toll rates, with contracts stipulating annual fee increases. However, the actual rates are decided by the NHAI itself, ensuring a standardized approach across the country.
Revised Toll Rates
Following the adjustment, the toll fee for light private vehicles traveling from Delhi (Sarai Kale Khan) to Meerut will increase from Rs 160 to Rs 168 for one-way travel. Similarly, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) may see their toll fee rise from Rs 250 to Rs 262. Likewise, the journey from Delhi (Sarai Kale Khan) to Hapur will incur an increased toll fee, rising from Rs 165 to Rs 173 for light private vehicles and from Rs 265 to Rs 278 for LCVs. At the Luharli toll between Ghaziabad and Aligarh, the toll for private vehicles is set to rise from Rs 140 to Rs 147.
As motorists hit the roads on June 3 and beyond, they must be prepared for the revised toll rates on expressways across India. While these increases may seem incremental, they collectively contribute to the overall cost of commuting, impacting individuals and businesses alike. The NHAI’s decision reflects its commitment to maintaining and enhancing the country’s infrastructure, albeit at a cost to commuters. Stay informed about these changes to better plan your travel expenses and ensure a smooth journey on India’s expressways.
