Implementation Of New Toll Rates On Highways Deferred Until After Lok Sabha Elections

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to proceed with the calculation of new toll rates on highways, which typically occurs annually starting 1 April.

However, the ECI has stipulated that the implementation of these new rates should be deferred until after the Lok Sabha elections.

This directive came in response to a request from the Minister of Road Transport and Highways.

The scheduled annual toll rate revision, expected to average around 5 per cent, was slated to take effect on 1 April for most tolled highways and expressways nationwide.

The ECI, in a communication dated 1 April 2024, specified that while the NHAI may continue its process for deciding on toll rates, the implementation of new tariffs shall be made only on the completion of poll in the relevant state, i.e after the poll date/dates in the state.

According to a senior official at NHAI, the adjustment of toll fees is part of an annual routine to align rates with changes in the wholesale price index and inflation.

The 18th Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to commence on 19 April, followed by subsequent phases on 26 April, 7 May, 13 May, 20 May, 25 May, and 1 June, with counting set for June 4.

There are approximately 855 toll plazas on the national highway network, where tolls are collected as per the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. Among these, around 675 are publicly funded, while 180 are operated by concessionaires.