In a move that is set to impact commuters across the country, the National Highways Authority has announced a significant increase in toll taxes for vehicles traveling on national highways and multiple motorways. The new rates are slated to come into effect from July 1, prompting concerns among motorists.
The toll tax hikes are applicable to various key routes including National Highways, M-1 (Islamabad–Peshawar Motorway), M-3 (Lahore-Abdul Hakeem Motorway), M-4 (Faisalabad-Multan Motorway), M-5 (Sukkur Multan Motorway), and M-15 (Hazara Motorway). Notably, no adjustments have been made for the M-2 Lahore-Islamabad motorway at this time.
Under the revised fee structure, toll taxes for cars on National Highways have surged from Rs30 to Rs40. Similarly, wagons, buses, and other vehicles are now subject to higher tolls.
Commuters traversing the entire length of specific motorways face substantial increases. For instance, the toll tax for cars on the Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway M-1 has spiked from Rs240 to Rs350, while on the M-3 it has climbed from Rs390 to Rs500. Meanwhile, on the M-4 Motorway, tolls for cars have risen from Rs510 to Rs650.
Furthermore, travelers on the M-14 Islamabad–Dera Ismail Khan motorway will now need to pay Rs550 in toll taxes.
In light of these developments, commuters are expressing concerns over the financial burden these hikes will impose. Some are also questioning the timing of the increases, particularly amidst ongoing challenges such as smog-related road closures.
Speaking of smog, several sections of motorways have been temporarily closed due to hazardous air conditions. Additionally, a tragic highway accident near Rajanpur has claimed eight lives, underscoring the importance of road safety measures.
As motorists brace themselves for the impending toll tax adjustments, authorities are urged to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of these funds, while also prioritizing measures to address road safety concerns and mitigate the impact of environmental challenges like smog.
