Starting April 1, 2025, highway toll rates across India will increase, impacting both private and commercial vehicles. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the annual revision of toll charges, citing inflation and infrastructure maintenance as key reasons. Whether you’re a daily commuter or planning a long road trip, it’s essential to understand these changes to budget your travel expenses accordingly.
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Why Are Toll Rates Increasing?
Toll charges are revised annually based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and other economic factors. The NHAI uses this additional revenue for:
- Road Maintenance: Ensuring smooth, pothole-free highways
- Infrastructure Development: Building new expressways, flyovers, and bridges
- Operational Costs: Managing toll plazas, electronic toll collection (FASTag), and staffing
- New Road Projects: Funding the expansion of the national highway network to improve connectivity
Breakdown of New Toll Charges
Let’s take a look at the revised toll rates for different routes and vehicle categories.
National Highways (NHAI Toll Hike)
From April 1, 2025, toll rates on national highways will rise by 5% on average. Here’s what to expect:
- Cars & SUVs: ₹10-₹30 increase per trip
- Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs): ₹25-₹50 hike per journey
- Trucks & Buses: ₹50-₹100 rise in charges
Example: If a car trip from Delhi to Jaipur earlier cost ₹500 in tolls, it will now cost approximately ₹525.
Pune-Mumbai Expressway Toll Rates
The toll hike on Pune-Mumbai Expressway will be 3% higher, impacting regular commuters and transporters.
- Four-wheelers: ₹5 increase (One-way: ₹275 → ₹280, Round-trip: ₹550 → ₹560)
- Heavy Vehicles: ₹15-₹20 hike, depending on the weight class
Himachal Pradesh Toll Rates
Toll barriers across Himachal Pradesh will see an increase:
- Private Vehicles: ₹10 additional toll fee
- Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs): ₹20 rise in charges
- Tourist Buses: ₹15 extra per trip
For those planning summer trips to Himachal Pradesh, it’s advisable to factor in these additional costs.
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How to Save Money on Tolls
Although the toll hike is inevitable, there are a few smart ways to reduce costs:
1. Use FASTag for Discounts
The government mandates FASTag for all vehicles, offering a seamless toll payment system. Benefits include:
- 5-10% Discount at select toll plazas
- Faster Processing (No cash queues)
- Lower Fuel Consumption (No idling at toll booths)
2. Choose Alternate Routes
Some highways have free alternative routes that take slightly longer but help save money. Before traveling, check Google Maps for toll-free road options.
3. Opt for Monthly Passes (For Frequent Travelers)
If you drive daily on a tolled route, consider a monthly toll pass for a discount on multiple trips.
4. Plan Your Stops Strategically
Some toll plazas charge different rates based on entry and exit points. A strategic stop or a different route can sometimes help avoid unnecessary toll charges.
5. Travel During Off-Peak Hours
Some highways have variable toll pricing based on the time of day. Traveling during non-peak hours can sometimes lead to lower charges.
6. Use Carpooling Services
By sharing rides through carpooling apps, commuters can split toll costs, making travel more affordable.
Government Measures to Improve Toll Collection
The government has introduced several measures to streamline toll collection and reduce congestion at toll plazas:
- GPS-Based Tolling: Plans are underway to implement GPS-based toll collection, which will charge vehicles based on distance traveled rather than a fixed toll per checkpoint.
- Multiple Payment Modes: Digital payments via UPI, net banking, and credit/debit cards are now accepted at many toll plazas.
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): Future toll booths will use ANPR cameras to automate vehicle identification and payment, reducing wait times.
(FAQs)
1. When will the new toll rates take effect?
The revised toll rates will be applicable from April 1, 2025.
2. Will FASTag users have different toll rates?
No, but FASTag users often get discounts at select toll plazas, reducing overall costs.
3. How much will I pay extra for a 100 km highway journey?
On average, toll charges will increase by ₹10-₹30 for cars, ₹25-₹50 for commercial vehicles, and ₹50-₹100 for heavy trucks.
4. Why does the government increase toll rates every year?
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) adjusts toll rates annually based on inflation (WPI index) and road infrastructure funding needs.
