Toll Tax is Unavoidable for Most Drivers
With the rapid expansion of National Highways and Expressways in India, toll taxes have become a part of everyday travel. Every driver is required to pay toll tax while crossing these highways. Although everyone wishes they could cross toll plazas without paying, the reality is that for most people, it’s mandatory.
Why is Toll Tax Collected?
Toll tax is essentially a fee imposed on vehicles for using public roads, highways, and bridges.
It helps fund the construction, maintenance, and repair of these roadways. Typically, toll tax is collected at designated toll plazas placed along highways and expressways.
Who Collects the Toll Tax?
The responsibility of collecting toll tax lies with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
With the development of better infrastructure, people are now traveling longer distances in their vehicles, making toll collection a crucial revenue source for maintaining these high-quality road networks.
Special Categories That Are Exempted from Paying Toll Tax
The Indian government provides toll tax exemptions to certain high-ranking officials and dignitaries across the country.
These privileged categories include:
- President and Vice President of India
- Prime Minister
- Chief Justice of India
- Governors and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories
- Union Cabinet Ministers
- Chief Ministers of States
- High Court Judges
- Chairman of Rajya Sabha and Speaker of Lok Sabha
- Chairman of State Legislative Councils and Speakers of State Legislative Assemblies
- State Ministers and Members of Parliament
- Secretaries of the Government of India
- Secretaries of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha
- Members of State Legislative Assemblies and Legislative Councils
- Foreign dignitaries on official state visits
National Award Winners Also Enjoy Toll Tax Exemption
Individuals honored with prestigious awards for their service to the nation are also exempt from paying toll tax.
This special list includes:
- Param Vir Chakra awardees
- Ashok Chakra recipients
- Maha Vir Chakra awardees
- Kirti Chakra recipients
- Shaurya Chakra awardees
Such individuals simply need to present their valid photo identification at the toll plaza to claim the exemption.
Other Officials Who Are Exempted
Beyond the prominent dignitaries and award winners, several other groups are granted toll tax exemptions, including:
- Ministry of Defence officials traveling for official work
- Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel
- Paramilitary forces and police personnel traveling in uniform
- Executive Magistrates on duty
- Fire department officials and emergency response organizations
- NHAI officers or individuals conducting inspection or survey work
Additionally, ambulances and hearse vehicles are completely exempt from toll taxes across the country.
Local Residents Also Receive Toll Tax Relief
Recently, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced a major relief for local residents.
If a person lives near a toll plaza and frequently uses that route, they can apply for toll tax exemption as a local resident, ensuring that regular commutes remain affordable for nearby populations.
