The National Highways Authority’s decision to increase toll taxes for the third time within seven months has drawn widespread attention. The latest rates, effective January 5, 2025, mark a steep increase in charges across Pakistan’s key highways and motorways.
The NHA aims to achieve an ambitious revenue target of Rs102 billion for 2024-25, compared to the Rs64 billion collected in the preceding fiscal year.
Such sharp increases have sparked debates on their necessity and the burden they impose on commuters. With rates for some vehicles more than doubling in a short period, the impact is significant for daily travelers and commercial transport operators alike.
Impact on Key Motorways and Highways
Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1)
The Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway, a critical link in Pakistan’s motorway network, has seen toll rates rise as follows:
- Cars: Rs460 → Rs500
- Wagons: Rs720 → Rs750
- Buses: Rs1,300 → Rs1,450
- Trucks: Rs1,950 → Rs2,300
Lahore-Abdul Hakeem Motorway (M-3)
This motorway, spanning central Punjab, now charges:
- Cars: Rs650 → Rs700
Pindi Bhattian-Faisalabad-Multan Motorway (M-4)
Toll taxes here have jumped significantly:
- Cars: Rs850 → Rs950
Multan-Sukkur Motorway (M-5)
One of the longest stretches in the network, the M-5 now charges:
- Cars: Rs1,050 → Rs1,100
Dera Ismail Khan-Hakla Motorway (M-14)
The newly developed M-14 will see toll rates set at:
- Cars: Rs600
Revised Toll Tax Rates
National Highways
On national highways, toll taxes have also increased:
- Cars: Rs50 → Rs60
- Wagons: Rs100
- Buses: Rs200 → Rs170
- Trucks (2/3-axle): Rs250
- Articulated Trucks: Rs500 → Rs460
These adjustments reflect a broad strategy by the NHA to enhance revenue collection from all vehicle categories.
Regional Toll Tax Changes
Kohat Tunnel (N55)
- Rates have risen substantially, impacting trade and travel in the area.
Islamabad-Murree-Kohala Highway (N75)
- Commuters traveling on this scenic highway now face increased tolls.
Mianwali Toll Plaza (N135)
- This route, crucial for northern transit, has also seen rates climb.
The NHA justifies these hikes as necessary to meet its financial targets and maintain Pakistan’s vast network of highways and motorways. These funds will primarily go toward:
- Maintenance of Existing Infrastructure: Ensuring safety and usability.
- Development of New Projects: Expanding the network to underserved regions.
, effective January 2025. Learn how these changes impact key routes, including M1, M3, M4, and more, and their role in achieving a Rs102 billion revenue targe){kind=link}