Good News For Commuters: Toll Fees Cut On Partially Open National Expressways From This Date

Last Updated:February 12, 2026, 22:55 IST

The revised toll structure will apply to all National Expressways that are partially open and not operational along their entire length.

The government amended national highway fee rules to lower toll charges for users of partially operational National Expressways, a move aimed at encouraging traffic to shift from congested highways to newly built expressway stretches. The change was announced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) through an amendment to the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008.

The government said the move is aimed at promoting the use of National Expressways, easing congestion on existing National Highways running parallel to them, improving logistics movement and reducing pollution caused by traffic bottlenecks on older routes.

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By making partially completed expressways more affordable, the ministry hopes to shift traffic early and maximise the benefits of new infrastructure even before projects are fully completed.

When Will Reduced Toll Come Into Effect?

According to the ministry, the amended rules will come into force from February 15.

How Much Will Toll Be Reduced?

At present, toll fees on National Expressways are 25 per cent higher than those on regular National Highways, even if the expressway is only partially open. Under the new rules, if a National Expressway is not operational end-to-end, toll will now be charged at the lower National Highway rate for the completed stretch, instead of the higher expressway rate.

Why Was Change Needed?

The ministry explained that expressways attract higher tolls because they offer access-controlled, faster and seamless travel. However, charging premium tolls even when the expressway is not fully functional was seen as discouraging usage. The amendment seeks to ensure that users are not charged extra unless they are getting the full benefits of an end-to-end expressway.

Which Routes Will Be Impacted?

The revised toll structure will apply to all National Expressways that are partially open and not operational along their entire length. Fully operational expressways will continue to attract higher toll rates.

How Long Will Rule Apply?

The reduced toll provision will remain valid for up to one year from February 15 or until the expressway becomes fully operational, whichever is earlier.

News india Good News For Commuters: Toll Fees Cut On Partially Open National Expressways From This Date

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