Now travelling from Lucknow to Ayodhya and Gorakhpur has become more expensive than before. Toll fee at Raunahi (Tahsinpur) toll plaza has been increased from Rs 5 to Rs 55.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has implemented revised toll rates from April 1 (midnight of March 31). This change will directly affect common passengers and people associated with the transport business. One-way and return toll charges have been increased for cars, buses, trucks, and heavy vehicles. This increase may bring additional financial burden to transporters, which may further increase travel fares and freight charges.
The government claims that these changes have been made to improve the maintenance and facilities of national highways, so that travellers can get better road infrastructure in the future.
Annual revision of toll rates
NHAI reviews toll rates every year. This time too, rates for all types of vehicles have been revised. The list of new rates has been publicly displayed at toll plazas and has also been updated in the digital system. This will ensure correct deduction to Fastag users.
Different increase on every vehicle
Car drivers will now have to pay Rs 125 instead of Rs 120, while for the return they will have to pay Rs 190 instead of Rs 185. For light commercial vehicles, the fare for the first trip has been increased from Rs 195 to Rs 205 and for the return from Rs 295 to Rs 305. Bus and truck drivers were earlier required to pay Rs 415, which has now increased to Rs 430, while for the return they will now have to pay Rs 640.
Toll fee increased for heavy vehicles
Toll rates for heavy vehicles have also been increased. The toll for 10-wheeler vehicles has been increased from Rs 450 to Rs 465 and Rs 700 for return. The fare for heavy trailers and big vehicles has been increased from Rs 650 to Rs 670 and Rs 1005 for return. The heaviest vehicles will now have to pay Rs 815, which was Rs 790 earlier and Rs 1225 instead of 1185 for return.
Impact on passengers and transport sector
This toll rate hike will have a direct impact on common passengers and transport companies. Bus and truck operators can increase fares, which will put an additional burden on the pockets of passengers. The prices of goods can also be affected due to the cost of freight.
Ease of payment with Fastag
For passengers who travel frequently on this route, the use of Fastag will be beneficial. This will save time at the toll and payment without cash will be possible. Also, passengers taking monthly passes will also have to pay as per the increased rates.
Necessary steps for road maintenance
Although the increase in toll rates may upset travellers, it is a necessary step to maintain the highways and strengthen the infrastructure. The government and NHAI claim that this will improve road facilities and make travelling more comfortable than before.
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