Karnataka National Highways Toll Revenue Jumps 10% in 2024-25
Bengaluru: Toll collections on national highways across Karnataka have experienced a significant surge over the past three years, according to data shared by the central government. In response to a query from Rajya Sabha member G Chandrashekhar, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari revealed that toll revenue in the state increased by 10 per cent during the 2024–25 financial year.
Year-on-Year Growth in Toll Collections
The figures provided by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) show a consistent upward trend:
- 2022-23: ₹3,049 crore collected
- 2023-24: ₹3,839 crore collected
- 2024-25: ₹4,224 crore collected
This growth highlights the increasing usage of national highways in Karnataka, driven by factors such as economic activity and improved infrastructure.
User Fee Structure Under National Highways Rules
Under the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008, vehicles are categorized based on size and axle configuration. The user fee is charged proportionally to the extent of road usage and the wear and tear caused by different vehicle types:
- Cars, jeeps, and vans fall under the lowest fee bracket.
- Light commercial vehicles, buses, and trucks attract higher charges due to their greater impact on road surfaces.
This structured approach ensures that fees align with the actual usage and maintenance costs of the highways.
FASTag and Electronic Toll Collection System
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized that toll evasion has become virtually impossible due to the widespread adoption of FASTag and the electronic toll collection (ETC) system. The ETC system is designed so that no FASTag transaction can occur without the participation of all three key stakeholders:
- The acquirer bank at the user fee plaza
- The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
- The issuer bank
Every transaction is transparently recorded, with users notified of deductions, and all data stored in a central repository. This system enhances accountability and reduces revenue leakage.
Implications for Karnataka's Infrastructure
The rise in toll revenue reflects not only increased traffic but also the effectiveness of digital payment systems in streamlining collections. This revenue is crucial for funding further highway development and maintenance projects across Karnataka, contributing to better connectivity and economic growth in the region.
As toll collections continue to grow, stakeholders anticipate further improvements in road safety and efficiency, supported by ongoing technological advancements in the transportation sector.
