The Indian government is considering a significant reduction in the list of vehicles exempted from paying toll on national highways, with the first category likely to be removed being 'secretaries to the government of India'. Currently, vehicles transporting or accompanying individuals holding any of the 25 public offices—such as the President, Prime Minister, governors, Chief Justice of India, chief ministers, and members of Parliament—are exempt from toll payments.
Current Exemptions
Apart from these high-ranking officials, several other categories also enjoy toll exemptions. These include vehicles used for official purposes by defence personnel, central and state armed forces in uniform (including paramilitary forces), executive magistrates, fire-fighting departments, and those on inspection of highway projects. Emergency vehicles such as ambulances and funeral vans are also exempt.
Committee Recommendations
The Times of India has learned that a high-level committee established by the central government has recommended that the road transport ministry amend the National Highways Fee Rules by 'eliminating the exempted category'. This move aims to streamline toll collection and increase revenue for highway maintenance and development.
The committee's proposal, if implemented, would mark a major policy shift affecting thousands of vehicles currently exempt. The government is expected to review the recommendations and may phase out exemptions gradually, starting with secretaries, which could save significant revenue leakage.
