The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has amended the National Highway Fee Rules, 2008.
According to the new rule, when a two-lane national highway (including paved side roads) is being widened to four lanes or more, motorists will not have to pay the full toll tax.
From the start of construction until the project is completed, travelers will only pay 30 percent of the prescribed toll, which means a 70 percent discount.
Relief for Motorists During Construction Work
Earlier, people often complained that full toll tax was collected even when roads were under construction, causing traffic jams, dust, and inconvenience.
To solve this issue, the central government has made major changes to toll rules. With this new decision, the toll burden on travelers has been reduced significantly.
The 70 percent toll discount is expected to bring relief to millions of motorists using national highways.
When Will the New Rule Be Implemented?
As per a government notification, the new rule will come into effect from the new year. This rule will not be limited to new highway projects.
It will also apply to all existing national highways where two-lane roads are being upgraded to four lanes or more.
Highway Expansion Plans and Investment
Officials said that around 25,000 to 30,000 kilometers of two-lane national highways across the country are planned to be upgraded to four lanes.
The government is investing around ₹10 lakh crore in these projects. The aim is to increase the share of freight traffic on national highways from the current 40 percent to 80 percent.
Additional Discounts for Wider Highways
Under the new rules, a 25 percent toll discount will also be given when a four-lane highway is being expanded to six or eight lanes. In such cases, motorists will only need to pay 75 percent of the prescribed toll during construction.
Existing Rule on Toll After Cost Recovery
Another rule that is already in effect states that once the cost of a toll road has been fully recovered, only 40 percent of the toll tax can be charged.
With the latest changes, travelers will now get substantial relief even while road construction is ongoing.
