Union Minister Nitin Gadkari (Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India) recently announced that the Ministry of Road Transport is working on a uniform toll policy to improve the experience for national highway users. He mentioned that India’s highway infrastructure is now comparable to that of the United States. The new toll policy aims to make toll collection more efficient, fair, and transparent while ensuring better road quality.
Satellite-based toll system
This move is part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its transport system with better expressways and improved state connectivity. The government has been investing heavily in road infrastructure, and a barrier-less, satellite-based toll system will be introduced soon.
Private cars make up 60% of traffic
Minister Gadkari addressed concerns from highway users, particularly complaints about high toll charges and poor road conditions. He assured that the ministry is taking action against contractors involved in these issues. He also noted that private cars make up 60% of traffic but contribute only 20-25% of toll revenue.
Toll collection reached Rs 64,809 crore
In the financial year 2023-24, India’s toll collection reached Rs 64,809 crore, showing a significant 35% increase from the previous year. This rise in toll revenue reflects the growing use of national highways and an increase in the number of toll Plazas across the country.
Rapid Growth in Highway Development
Additionally, the Ministry of Road Transport and highways is on track to surpass its previous record of constructing 37 kilometers of highways per day. So far this year, around 7,000 kilometers of highways have already been built. This indicates a strong pace of road development, which is part of India’s ongoing efforts to improve and expand its transport infrastructure.
This uniform toll policy aims to address commuter concerns and improve the overall highway experience.
Shashi Rai
