The Government of India has amended toll collection norms under the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, ensuring commuters no longer pay full expressway charges for stretches that are not fully operational. The revised framework, effective February 15, 2026, mandates that toll will be levied only on completed and operational sections of National Expressways, and at rates applicable to National Highways (NH).
This reform marks a significant shift toward user-centric toll pricing, aligning charges with actual infrastructure availability and service delivery.
Key Changes in Toll Calculation
Under the amended rules:
- Toll will be charged only for operational portions of a National Expressway.
- The National Highway rate, which is lower than the expressway rate, will apply to incomplete sections.
- The reduced charge will remain applicable for up to one year or until full operationalisation, whichever is earlier.
Previously, commuters were often charged toll based on the entire notified length of the expressway, even if substantial stretches were under construction. This meant users paid the 25% higher expressway premium despite limited usability.
Current Expressway Toll Structure Explained
At present:
- Expressway toll rates are 25% higher than National Highway rates.
- The premium reflects features such as:
- Access-controlled entry and exit
- Higher speed limits
- Improved safety standards
- Seamless travel experience
However, with the new amendment, this premium will not apply to incomplete stretches, ensuring fairer pricing for commuters.
Rationale Behind the Amendment
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) stated that the reform aims to:
- Encourage greater use of operational expressway sections
- Reduce traffic congestion on parallel National Highways
- Improve freight movement efficiency
- Lower vehicular emissions caused by prolonged traffic snarls
By rationalising toll charges, the government expects to promote smoother traffic distribution and optimise road infrastructure usage.
Expected Impact on Road Users
The amendment is expected to provide relief to:
- Daily commuters using partially completed expressways
- Logistics and freight operators
- Inter-state bus services
- Commercial vehicle owners
Lower toll outgo could reduce transportation costs, potentially influencing overall supply chain efficiency and pricing stability. The policy also signals a broader shift toward transparent and performance-linked infrastructure pricing.
Quick Reference Summary
| Aspect | Details |
| Amendment To | National Highways Fee Rules, 2008 |
| Effective Date | February 15, 2026 |
| Key Change | Toll only on operational expressway sections |
| Applicable Rate | National Highway rate for incomplete stretches |
| Expressway Premium | 25% higher than NH (not applicable if incomplete) |
| Objective | Fair pricing, reduce congestion, improve efficiency |
Broader Policy Implications
This move reflects a commitment to equitable toll collection and improved accountability in infrastructure rollout. It aligns toll collection with operational readiness, reducing dissatisfaction among road users who previously paid full charges for partially functional expressways.
Additionally, reduced congestion on traditional highways may:
- Enhance road safety
- Lower fuel consumption
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Improve travel time reliability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| When will the new toll rules come into effect? |
| The amended rules will take effect from February 15, 2026. |
| Will commuters pay full expressway toll if the road is incomplete? |
| No, toll will be charged only for operational sections at National Highway rates. |
| What was the earlier expressway toll structure? |
| Expressway toll rates were 25% higher than National Highway rates. |
| How long will the reduced rate apply? |
| For up to one year or until the expressway becomes fully operational, whichever is earlier. |
| Which rules were amended? |
| The National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. |
| Who introduced the amendment? |
| The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). |
| How will this impact logistics operators? |
| It is expected to reduce toll costs on partially completed corridors. |
| Why was the amendment introduced? |
| To ensure fair toll collection and encourage usage of operational stretches. |
The amendment to the National Highways Fee Rules represents a major reform in India’s toll collection framework. By linking toll charges to actual operational status, the government has prioritised fairness and efficiency in infrastructure pricing. Road users can expect tangible savings on partially completed expressways starting February 15, 2026. For official notifications and detailed circulars, commuters are advised to refer to updates from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and bookmark this page for future developments.
