The National Highways Authority (NHA) has announced a substantial increase in toll taxes across highways and motorways, marking the third hike this year. The revised rates, effective January 5, 2025, aim to bolster revenue to meet the rising operational and infrastructure maintenance costs.
Key Toll Tax Revisions:
Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M1):
- Cars: Rs. 500 (up from Rs. 460)
- Wagons: Rs. 750 (up from Rs. 720)
- Buses: Rs. 1,450 (up from Rs. 1,300)
- Trucks: Rs. 2,300 (up from Rs. 1,950)
M3 (Lahore-Abdul Hakeem):
- Cars: Rs. 700 (up from Rs. 650)
M4 (Pindi Bhattian-Faisalabad-Multan):
- Cars: Rs. 950 (up from Rs. 850)
M5 (Sukkur-Multan):
- Cars: Rs. 1,100 (up from Rs. 1,050)
M14 (Dera Ismail Khan-Hakla):
- Cars: Rs. 600 (up from Rs. 550)
National Highways:
- Cars: Rs. 60 (up from Rs. 50)
- Wagons: Rs. 100 (up from Rs. 90)
- Buses: Rs. 200 (up from Rs. 170)
- Articulated Trucks: Rs. 500 (up from Rs. 460)
Petrol and Diesel Price Updates
Petrol Price:
- Increased by Rs. 0.56 per liter.
- New price: Rs. 252.66/liter, up from Rs. 252.10/liter.
High-Speed Diesel (HSD):
- Increased by Rs. 2.96 per liter.
- New price: Rs. 258.34/liter, up from Rs. 255.38/liter.
Additional Hikes:
Tolls have also been increased at critical locations such as the Kohat Tunnel (N55), Islamabad-Murree-Kohala Highway (N75), and Mianwali Toll Plaza (N135).
Reasons Behind the Hike:
The NHA cites insufficient tax collection as a primary factor, with only 13% of the expected toll tax collected as of August 2024. This shortfall, coupled with escalating maintenance costs and fiscal challenges, has led to consecutive toll hikes in May, August, and now January.
Moreover, the NHA plans to realign the salat range patch on the M2 Motorway, notorious for its sharp 7-degree angles causing fatal accidents. This redevelopment project requires substantial funding, further necessitating increased toll revenues.
Impact on Commuters:
The frequent toll adjustments will significantly impact daily commuters and freight operators. The latest hike doubles toll tax rates for several routes compared to earlier in the year, placing an added burden on transport costs.
