New Delhi: There will be no toll tax for two-wheelers, the government has said, dismissing recent media reports to that effect.
After Union minister of road transport and highways announced the introduction of an annual FASTag pass for non-commercial vehicles recently, there were reports that the government would soon bring two-wheelers under the toll tax net.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) addressed the claims, clarifying that no such proposal is under consideration and there are no plans to introduce toll charges for two-wheelers.
“Some sections of the media have reported that the Government of India plans to levy user fees on two-wheelers. NHAI would like to clarify that no such proposal is under consideration. There are no plans to introduce toll charges for two-wheelers,” NHAI posted on X.
Gadkari also dismissed the media reports and stated that “no such decision has been proposed.”
“The exemption on toll for two-wheeler vehicles will continue fully,” he posted.
There are nearly 210 million registered two-wheelers in India. While primarily used for movement within city limits, the country’s urban sprawl has led to many motorcycle and scooter owners using National Highways to commute. Toll plazas have separate gates for two-wheelers.
The reports of toll tax being imposed on two-wheelers created a sensation across the country.
The government will roll out the FASTag annual passes on August 15. These passes will allow up to 200 toll-free trips or one year of unlimited access on national highways and expressways for a fixed amount of Rs 3,000.
Gadkari had described the scheme as a major step towards making highway travel more affordable and less time-consuming, especially for middle-class families. The plan, which works on existing FASTags, is expected to significantly reduce congestion at toll plazas while promoting seamless digital transactions.
