The National Highway Authority (NHA) has announced a second increase in toll taxes for national highways and motorways, set to take effect on April 1, 2025. This move comes just three months after the previous hike, placing additional financial strain on commuters and transporters across the country.​Pakwheels+7The Express Tribune+7The Express Tribune+7

Revised Toll Rates

According to the official notification, the new toll charges are as follows:​Dunya News+2Profit by Pakistan Today+2The Express Tribune+2

• National Highways:

  • Cars: Rs. 70​Pakistan Observer+3ProPakistani+3The Express Tribune+3

  • Vans: Rs. 150​The Express Tribune+6Pakistan Observer+6Geo.tv+6

  • Buses: Rs. 250​

  • Two- and three-axle trucks: Rs. 300​Pakistan Observer

  • Larger trucks: Rs. 550​Profit by Pakistan Today+6Pakwheels+6Pakistan Observer+6

• Major Motorways:

  • M1 Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 500 to Rs. 550

  • M3 Lahore-Abdul Hakeem Motorway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 700 to Rs. 800

  • M4 Pindi Bhattian-Faisalabad-Multan Motorway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 950 to Rs. 1,050

  • M5 Multan-Sukkur Motorway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 1,100 to Rs. 1,200

  • M14 Dera Ismail Khan-Hakla Motorway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 600 to Rs. 650

  • E35 Hasan Abdal-Havelian-Mansehra Expressway:

    • Cars: Increased from Rs. 250 to Rs. 300

For larger vehicles, toll rates across these motorways now range from Rs. 850 to Rs. 5,750, depending on the vehicle type and route. ​Profit by Pakistan Today+4The Express Tribune+4Pakistan Observer+4

Impact on Commuters and Transporters

This consecutive toll increase is expected to have significant repercussions for daily commuters and the transportation industry. Regular travelers on these routes will face higher travel costs, while transport businesses may need to adjust freight charges to offset the increased expenses. These adjustments could potentially lead to a rise in the prices of goods and services nationwide.​

Government's Perspective

While the NHA has not provided a detailed explanation for this latest hike, such increases are typically implemented to fund road maintenance and infrastructure development projects. Ensuring the upkeep and expansion of the nation's transportation network is crucial for economic growth and connectivity.​ProPakistani+8Profit by Pakistan Today+8Geo.tv+8

Public Response

The public reaction to the toll increase has been mixed. Some citizens understand the necessity of funding infrastructure improvements, while others express frustration over the additional financial burden, especially given the short interval since the last increase. The government may need to engage in dialogue with stakeholders to address these concerns and explore potential measures to mitigate the impact on the most affected groups.​

Conclusion

As the new toll rates come into effect on April 1, 2025, commuters and transporters are advised to plan their budgets accordingly. Staying informed about such changes is essential for effective financial planning and adapting to the evolving economic landscape.​