In a move that has stirred significant debate and public concern, the National Highway Authority (NHA) of Pakistan has once again increased toll taxes on various Motorway across the country. This latest adjustment, effective from January 5, 2025, marks the third increase in toll charges within just seven months, significantly impacting commuters and transporters alike. The step has raised eyebrows as many question the timing and justification of the hike amid growing inflation and economic challenges facing the general public.
Background and Details of the Toll Increase
Pakistan’s motorway network, maintained and operated by the National Highway Authority, serves as the backbone of intercity travel and freight movement across the country. These motorways include some of the busiest routes such as M1 (Peshawar to Islamabad), M3 (Lahore to Abdul Hakim), M4 (Pindi Bhattian to Faisalabad and Multan), M5 (Sukkur to Multan), and M14 (Dera Ismail Khan to Hakkla).
According to official announcements, the toll rates for various motorways have been increased substantially. For example, the toll for a car traveling from Islamabad to Peshawar on M1 has gone up from 460 PKR to 500 PKR. Similarly, on M3, the toll charge increased from 650 PKR to 700 PKR, while M4 saw an increase from 850 PKR to 950 PKR. M5’s toll has risen from 1050 PKR to 1150 PKR, and the M14 toll now stands at 600 PKR. These figures indicate an overall increase ranging from approximately 7% to 10%, depending on the route.
This hike means that everyday commuters, long-distance travelers, and commercial transporters are now facing increased travel costs, adding to the financial burdens many are already experiencing.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The toll increase has been met with criticism from various quarters, including opposition political figures, transport unions, and the general public. Many argue that the timing of this increase is particularly harsh given the current economic environment, where inflation is rising and disposable incomes are under pressure.
Critics point out that the repeated hikes in toll fees over such a short span could discourage the use of motorways, pushing more vehicles onto alternative, less safe routes and potentially increasing traffic accidents and road damage elsewhere. The government, on the other hand, justifies these increases by citing the need for ongoing motorway maintenance, infrastructure development, and inflationary pressures on operational costs.
Legal Challenges and Public Protests
Adding to the controversy, a legal challenge has been filed in the Peshawar High Court against the recent increase in toll taxes. Petitioners argue that the government’s decision to impose a 100% surcharge on vehicles without electronic M-Tag devices (used for automated toll collection) is illegal and unjustified. They claim this policy discriminates against certain users and places an undue financial burden on motorists who have not yet adopted the M-Tag system.
The court has taken notice of the petition and has issued a stay order, postponing the implementation of the new toll rates pending further hearings. This legal development highlights the growing unrest and dissatisfaction among road users and their representatives.
Impact on Economy and Transportation Sector
The increased toll tax affects not only individual travelers but also the broader economy. Pakistan’s transportation sector relies heavily on these motorways for the movement of goods, including agricultural produce, manufactured items, and consumer products. Higher toll fees increase transportation costs, which often get passed down the supply chain, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
Logistics companies and freight operators have expressed concern that the escalating toll expenses will strain profit margins and might lead to increased fares for passengers and higher costs for transported goods. Such inflationary effects can ripple through the economy, worsening the already fragile economic situation.
Government’s Perspective and Future Plans
Officials from the National Highway Authority and the Ministry of Communications defend the toll increases by emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding for motorway upkeep. They argue that toll collections are crucial for financing routine maintenance, expansion projects, and the introduction of new technologies like the M-Tag system aimed at easing traffic flow and reducing congestion at toll plazas.
Moreover, the government indicates that increased toll revenue will help improve safety features on motorways, enhance surveillance, and facilitate quicker response to emergencies.
The authorities have also announced plans to encourage wider adoption of the M-Tag system, which allows for cashless toll payments and reduces delays. They hope that with broader acceptance, the burden on manual toll collection can be minimized, and more efficient pricing models can be introduced.
Conclusion
The latest increase in motorway toll taxes in Pakistan comes at a time when the public is already grappling with multiple economic challenges. While the government’s need to maintain and improve critical infrastructure is understandable, the repeated toll hikes have raised serious questions about affordability, fairness, and timing.
As legal challenges proceed and public pressure mounts, it remains to be seen how the government will balance infrastructure funding with the financial well-being of its citizens. For now, commuters and transporters are left to bear the brunt of higher toll charges, adding to the cost of travel and transport in the country.
Reference: موٹر وے ٹول ٹیکس میں ایک بار پھر اضافہ کر دیا گیا
