Govt Slashes Toll Rates on Elevated Expressways and Tunnels by 50%

In a major relief for highway users, especially those commuting between neighbouring cities or using urban expressways, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved a significant reduction in toll charges for stretches with extensive elevated structures such as flyovers, underpasses, and tunnels.

Currently, under the National Highways Fee Rules, the toll for elevated sections or tunnels is calculated at ten times the rate of a regular highway stretch. However, as per the new directive, this rate will now be halved and capped at five times the standard toll for conventional highway segments. The change is expected to be officially notified in the coming days.

The revised toll policy will apply to highway sections where more than 50% of the route consists of elevated infrastructure. This includes urban bypasses, ring roads, and expressways developed by the central government that often feature a high proportion of flyovers or tunnels — such as Delhi's Dwarka Expressway.

A government official, citing an example, explained how the revised formula would impact toll costs. At present, a one-way journey by car on the 28.5-km Dwarka Expressway, which has approximately 21 km of elevated stretches, costs around ₹317 — ₹306 for the elevated portions and ₹11 for the remaining 7 km. Once the new rule is implemented, the toll for the same trip is expected to drop to roughly ₹153.

While the revision may not significantly impact private car owners using the soon-to-be-launched Annual Toll Pass scheme, officials pointed out that commercial vehicles and heavy transport operators are likely to benefit considerably from the reduced rates.

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