India has introduced many expressways to improve connectivity and make travel smoother. As new stretches open in phases, several routes remain partially operational while construction continues on other sections. Now, the Government of India has announced toll relief on partially open expressways. The new rules will come into effect from February 15, 2026. Scroll down to know more.
Toll Relief On Partially Open Expressways
The government has updated the highway toll rules. According to India Today, after making changes to the 2008 fee rules, it introduced the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2026. Under these new rules, drivers will pay toll only for the part of an expressway that is fully built and open for use. They will not be charged for sections that are still under construction.
Expressways are built for smoother travel. Because of this, they usually come with higher toll charges. Commuters were paying about 25% extra even when the expressway was not fully ready. Basically, people were paying premium rates for an incomplete ride. Now, that changes. Toll plazas will charge rates similar to a regular National Highway if the expressway is not fully open.
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Temporary Relief Till Stretch Opens Fully
This toll benefit will not continue permanently. This relief is only for a limited time. As per India Today, the government has said the reduced rates will stay for up to one year or until the expressway becomes fully operational. Once the entire stretch opens fully, the regular expressway toll charges will be applicable. So, for now, drivers can enjoy some savings while the road gets fully ready.
The idea behind this move is simple. Officials want more drivers to actually use the parts of the expressway that are ready. As per The Indian Express, MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways) said, if more vehicles shift to these new stretches, nearby National Highways may finally get some breathing space. These older routes often deal with heavy traffic and long delays.
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Ridham Nagralawala