Have you ever traveled through India and wondered who was taking toll tax? You might be surprised to know that the toll tax collection system in India is quite complex. The responsibility for collecting toll tax falls on a variety of parties, including the National Highways Authority of India, state governments, and private companies.
The National Highways Authority of India is responsible for managing toll collection on national highways across the country. These toll booths are manned by teams of toll collectors who work around the clock to collect fees from drivers passing through. State governments are also involved in toll tax collection, with some states managing their own toll booths and others contracting out the work to private companies.
Private companies are increasingly playing a major role in toll tax collection in India. These companies are often brought in to manage toll booths on behalf of state governments or to build and operate new toll roads. However, there have been concerns about the role of private companies in toll collection, with some critics arguing that they prioritize profits over public interest. Nonetheless, toll tax is an essential aspect of infrastructure development in India and plays a crucial role in funding road maintenance and construction.
Electronic toll collection (ETC) system in India
India has a well-established toll collection system where tolls are collected by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), state departments, or private concessionaires. To overcome the drawbacks of cash transactions like traffic congestion, long queues, and revenue leakages, the government introduced Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system in India.
- The ETC system was first introduced in India in 2014 as a pilot project on Mumbai-Pune Expressway. The system was received positively and was later rolled out across various National Highways and state toll plazas.
- The ETC system uses various technologies like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC), and Global Positioning System (GPS) to enable automatic toll collection without stopping the vehicle.
- Under the ETC system, a device called FastTag is affixed on the windscreen of the vehicle, which is linked with the bank account or E-wallet of the vehicle owner. As the vehicle crosses the toll plaza, the toll amount is automatically deducted from the linked account without stopping the vehicle.
The ETC system has many benefits, including reduction in traffic congestion, revenue leakages, and transaction time. Moreover, it promotes the use of non-cash transactions and provides a hassle-free experience to the commuters.
The government has made the use of FastTag mandatory for all new vehicles sold from December 2017. However, the system is currently facing some challenges like technical glitches, lack of awareness, and unavailability of FastTags. Nevertheless, the government is taking various steps to rectify the issues and make the ETC system more efficient and widespread.
| Benefits of ETC system in India | Challenges faced in ETC system in India |
|---|---|
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In conclusion, the ETC system in India is a significant step towards a cashless and efficient toll collection system. Though some challenges persist, the government is committed to making the system more widespread and efficient. The ETC system is a perfect example of how technology can simplify routine processes and bring ease to people’s lives.
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Toll Collection
Toll tax collection in India is an essential aspect of road maintenance. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is a government agency that oversees the development, maintenance, and management of national highways in the country. The NHAI is also responsible for toll collection on national highways across India.
- The NHAI has introduced electronic toll collection (ETC) to streamline the toll collection process and reduce waiting times at toll booths.
- The ETC system helps to eliminate cash transactions by using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to deduct the toll amount from a prepaid account linked to the vehicle’s registration.
- The NHAI has set up a national electronic toll collection program called “FASTag” to help motorists avail themselves of the benefits of ETC.
The NHAI has set up a centralized toll-free helpline number 1033 to address any concerns or complaints regarding toll collection. Additionally, the NHAI website provides details on toll plaza locations and toll rates for different categories of vehicles.
Here is a breakdown of the NHAI’s classification of vehicles and toll rates for the 2021-22 financial year:
| Type of Vehicle | Single Journey Toll Rate (INR) |
|---|---|
| Car/Jeep/Van | 65 |
| Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) | 105 |
| Bus/Truck | 220 |
| Multi-Axle Vehicle | 285 |
| Overhang Vehicle | 350 |
The NHAI’s toll collection system ensures that funds are available for maintenance and repair of national highways while providing a convenient and efficient experience for drivers.
State-wise toll plaza location in India
Toll plazas are an essential part of the road infrastructure in India that helps maintain the country’s highways, expressways, and bridges. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is responsible for the construction, operation, and maintenance of national highways. India has various toll plaza locations across different states. Here is a list of state-wise toll plaza locations in India:
- Andhra Pradesh: There are 25 toll plazas in Andhra Pradesh, including the Vijayawada toll plaza, the Kurnool toll plaza, and the Anantapuram toll plaza.
- Gujarat: The state of Gujarat has 32 toll plazas, including the Vadodara toll plaza, the Surat toll plaza, and the Ahmedabad toll plaza.
- Jharkhand: There are only two toll plazas in Jharkhand, the Barhi toll plaza, and the Mango toll plaza.
- Karnataka: The state of Karnataka has 26 toll plazas, including the Hebbal toll plaza, the Devanahalli toll plaza, and the Electronic City toll plaza.
- Kerala: There are ten toll plazas in Kerala, including the Kumbalam toll plaza, the Paliyekkara toll plaza, and the Kumbalam toll plaza.
- Maharashtra: Maharashtra has 146 toll plazas, including the Khalapur toll plaza, the Talegaon toll plaza, and the Kolhapur toll plaza.
- Rajasthan: There are 46 toll plazas in Rajasthan, including the Ajmer toll plaza, the Kishangarh toll plaza, and the Udaipur toll plaza.
- Tamil Nadu: The state of Tamil Nadu has 29 toll plazas, including the Walajapet toll plaza, the Thirumazhisai toll plaza, and the Krishnagiri toll plaza.
- Uttar Pradesh: There are 77 toll plazas in Uttar Pradesh, including the Lucknow toll plaza, the Agra toll plaza, and the Kanpur toll plaza.
Analysis of state-wise toll plaza locations in India
The above data shows that some states in India have more toll plazas than others. Maharashtra has the highest number of toll plazas, while Jharkhand has only two. These toll plazas are essential to maintain the country’s highways and provide better connectivity. The location of toll plazas is also crucial to reduce traffic congestion and ensure seamless movement of vehicles.
List of top toll plazas in India
Here are some of the top toll plazas in India:
- Khalapur toll plaza: Located on the Mumbai-Pune expressway, this toll plaza is one of the busiest in India.
- Varanasi-Chandauli toll plaza: This toll plaza is unique in India as it is India’s first solar-powered toll plaza.
- Surat toll plaza: Located on the National Highway-8, this toll plaza is one of the highest revenue-generating toll plazas in India.
Toll tax payment system in India
The toll tax payment system in India has evolved with time, and there are several options available for payment. Here is a table summarizing the different toll payment options:
| Toll payment option | Description |
|---|---|
| Cash | Motorists can pay the toll tax in cash at the toll plaza counters. |
| FastTag | FastTag is an electronic toll collection system that allows you to pay the toll tax without stopping. It is currently accepted at all NHAI toll plazas across India. |
| UPI payment | Some toll plazas in India also accept UPI payments, making it more convenient for customers. |
| Credit/Debit cards | Some toll plazas allow motorists to make payments using credit or debit cards. |
These payment options make paying toll tax more convenient for motorists in India.
Toll exemption for emergency vehicles and defense personnel in India
Toll tax collection in India has been a contentious issue for quite some time. People often wonder who takes the toll tax in India. However, it must be noted that toll tax is a crucial source of revenue for the government, as it is utilized for the maintenance and construction of highways and roads.
That being said, there are several exemptions to toll tax, including exemption for emergency vehicles and defense personnel in India.
- Emergency Vehicles: Emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire brigade vehicles, and police vehicles are exempted from toll tax in India. This exemption applies to both public and private emergency vehicles. The reason behind this exemption is that these vehicles are usually required to reach their destination in a timely and efficient manner, without any hindrance, to save lives and property.
- Defense Personnel: Toll tax exemption for defense personnel in India is also allowed. Defense personnel who are travelling in private vehicles are exempted from paying toll tax on highways. This exemption extends to active as well as retired military personnel. The rationale behind this exemption is to honor the sacrifices made by our armed forces and to aid them in their daily commute.
- Other Exemptions: In addition to the above exemptions, toll tax exemption is also extended to government officials and VIPs, including the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Members of Parliament.
The toll exemption policy for emergency vehicles and defense personnel in India is a step in the right direction. It recognizes the importance of emergency services and the contributions made by our armed forces.
| Category | Toll Exemption |
|---|---|
| Emergency Vehicles | Exempted from toll tax |
| Defense Personnel | Exempted from toll tax in private vehicles |
| Government Officials and VIPs | Exempted from toll tax |
Overall, while toll tax collection is necessary in India, the exemptions for emergency vehicles and defense personnel demonstrate the government’s commitment to promoting public welfare and recognizing the service of our armed forces.
Toll Tax Payment Methods in India
India has a vast network of highways and expressways, consisting of over 142,000 km of national highways and 1.33 million km of state highways. To maintain and develop these roads, toll tax is levied on vehicles using them. Here’s a list of the toll tax payment methods in India:
- Cash: This is the most common and traditional toll tax payment method in India. At toll plazas, vehicles can pay the toll tax in cash and receive a receipt.
- FASTag: Introduced in 2016, FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that utilizes RFID technology to enable cashless payments. Motorists can install a FASTag sticker on their vehicle’s windshield and link it to their prepaid account. When passing through a toll plaza, the toll amount is automatically deducted from the prepaid account linked to the FASTag.
- Credit/Debit Card: Some toll plazas accept payment through credit/debit cards. However, due to connectivity issues in some areas, this method might not always work.
While toll payment methods differ, the toll tax rate is uniform across India and is based on the type of vehicle and the distance travelled. To determine the precise toll tax payable, each state has a toll plaza that is responsible for collecting toll taxes on its respective highways. To help calculate the toll tax, the authorities have made a toll tax calculator available online, which motorists can use to estimate the amount of payment.
Here are some useful tips for motorists in India to ensure hassle-free toll tax payment:
- Always keep sufficient cash and change to pay toll tax in case electronic systems don’t work or are unavailable.
- Ensure that the FASTag is linked to a valid and active account to avoid payment failures and penalties.
- Reload the prepaid account linked to the FASTag on time to avoid running out of balance while travelling.
| Vehicle Category | Toll Tax Rate (per kilometer) |
|---|---|
| Cars | 0.067 |
| State Transport Buses | 0.30 |
| Trucks (2 Axle) | 0.165 |
| Trucks (Multi-Axle) | 0.330 |
Finally, it’s worth noting that certain types of vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, diplomatic vehicles, and vehicles carrying armed forces personnel, are exempt from paying toll tax in India.
Toll Rates Comparison between India and Other Countries
In India, toll taxes are levied on vehicles for using the roads, bridges, and tunnels. The collected money is used for maintenance and repair of these infrastructures. But how do the toll rates in India compare to other countries globally? Let’s explore.
- In countries like Singapore and Malaysia, toll tax rates are calculated based on the distance traveled. The rates can vary from a few cents to a few dollars per kilometer traveled.
- In the United States, toll tax rates vary from state to state and are calculated based on the type of vehicle, number of axles, and distance traveled.
- In European countries like France and Italy, toll fees are charged for using highways, bridges, and tunnels. These fees are generally higher for heavy commercial vehicles.
As for India, toll rates have been increasing year-on-year, with the latest hike being in February 2021. The rates vary from location to location and depend on the type of vehicle. For example, the toll tax for a car traveling from Mumbai to Pune is INR 230, while for a commercial truck, it is INR 1,040.
The table below shows a comparison of toll rates for some major cities in India:
| City | Toll Rate for Cars (INR) | Toll Rate for Commercial Vehicles (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru | 25-65 | 70-90 |
| Delhi | 45-100 | 170-715 |
| Mumbai | 30-75 | 140-625 |
It’s important to note that toll tax rates in India vary widely depending on the location and type of vehicle. However, compared to other countries, India’s toll rates are relatively lower.
Toll usage for road maintenance and infrastructure development in India
Toll tax is a significant source of revenue for the Indian government, which is used for road maintenance and infrastructure development. The Indian government has been investing heavily in infrastructure development, and toll tax plays a vital role in financing these development projects.
- Toll tax is collected by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other state-level authorities.
- The collected toll tax is used for the development and maintenance of highways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure in the country.
- The NHAI uses the toll tax revenue to fund its ambitious project, Bharatmala, which aims to enhance connectivity across the country via highways.
The toll tax is also used for the maintenance of roads and bridges. The government has been considering the implementation of a user-fee based system to fund the maintenance of highways. The proposed system will be similar to the current toll tax system and will charge a fee for the usage of highways, which will be used for the upkeep of the highways.
Here’s a breakdown of the toll tax rates for different types of vehicles:
| Type of Vehicle | Toll Tax Rate (Per km) |
|---|---|
| Car | Rs. 0.75 |
| Bus | Rs. 2.25 |
| Truck/Lorry | Rs. 2.83 |
| Multi-Axle Vehicle | Rs. 5.37 |
The toll tax collection system in India has been undergoing a digital transformation. The FASTag system has been implemented across all the toll plazas in the country, which offers a cashless payment option and reduces the waiting time at toll booths.
The toll tax system in India has been instrumental in financing the development of the transportation infrastructure in the country. With the implementation of user-fee based systems and the adoption of digital payment methods, the system is only set to become more efficient and modern in the coming years.
Who Takes Toll Tax in India FAQs
Q: What is toll tax?
A: Toll tax is a fee charged to drivers for using a specific road, bridge, or tunnel. It is used to fund the maintenance and construction of the roadway.
Q: Who takes toll tax in India?
A: Toll taxes in India are taken by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and state road transportation departments.
Q: How are toll taxes calculated in India?
A: Toll taxes in India are calculated based on the type of vehicle, the distance traveled, and the number of axles on the vehicle.
Q: Are toll taxes collected everywhere in India?
A: Toll taxes are collected on highways and expressways across India. However, some smaller rural roads or city streets may not have toll booths.
Q: Can I pay toll tax in India with a credit card?
A: Many toll booths in India now accept payment through digital wallets and credit/debit cards. However, it is advisable to carry cash as backup as not all toll booths have this facility.
Q: Is there a way to avoid paying toll tax in India?
A: It is not recommended to avoid paying toll tax as it is a legal requirement. However, some states in India offer exemptions or discounts to local residents.
Closing Thoughts
We hope this article answered your questions about who takes toll tax in India. Remember to always carry cash for toll booth payments and not to avoid paying the fees. Thanks for reading and please visit us again for more articles about travel and transportation in India. Safe travels!