Expressways being built across the country for faster travel speeds and better connectivity will now be less burdensome for travelers. The central government has made a significant change to national highway fee regulations, announcing that if a national expressway is not operational for its entire length, tolls will not be charged for the entire route.

There's great news for those dreaming of fast and comfortable travel across the country. The central government has made a major change to the toll collection rules on partially operational national expressways. Now, if an expressway is not operational for its entire length, travelers will be charged tolls only for the operational portion, and at a reduced rate. This new rule will take effect on February 15, 2026.

What is the new rule?

The government has amended the National Highway Fee (Determination and Collection) Rules, 2008. Under the new provision, if a national expressway isn't fully open from start to finish, toll fees will apply only to the operational portion. Furthermore, toll rates on this section will be charged at the same rate as a regular national highway, rather than expressway rates, which are typically lower. It's worth noting that until now, in many places, tolls were charged at the full rate even on partially completed expressways, causing dissatisfaction among travelers. The new rule seeks to address this disparity.

Passengers and the transport sector benefit

The government believes that lower toll rates will encourage more people to use the operational portions of the expressway. This will reduce traffic congestion on the parallel, older national highway. The movement of trucks and cargo vehicles will be faster, reducing logistics costs and ensuring timely delivery of goods. Faster and smoother traffic will save commuters time and reduce fuel consumption.

Expected reduction in traffic jams and pollution

Reducing traffic congestion is also a major objective of the government. As vehicles shift to less crowded expressways, congestion on older highways will improve. This will reduce intermittent traffic and potentially reduce pollution.

The rules will come into effect from February 15, 2026

This amendment will take effect on February 15, 2026. Following this, the new rules will apply to all partially operational expressways across the country. The government says this step is aimed at making travel more affordable and convenient for national highway and expressway users.

PC:NDTVINDIA