Ahmedabad: Several stretches of national highways in Gujarat are in poor condition, causing daily trouble for motorists. Despite the damaged roads, toll tax continues to be collected from commuters. Over the past five years, the state has collected a total of Rs 8,702 crore from motorists as toll tax.
Heavy rain washed away highways and city roads
This year’s heavy rainfall affected not only city and district roads but also highways, leaving many stretches badly damaged. The condition of roads triggered widespread criticism of the government from various quarters, following which the state government had to issue orders on repair work. The government also asked in-charge ministers to visit their assigned areas, gather information on road conditions, and submit reports.
National highways also hit; repairs ordered after complaints reached Delhi
National highways were not spared by rainwater damage either. The Ahmedabad-to-Himmatnagar national highway turned severely battered, but motorists were still compelled to pay toll charges. Complaints over the highway’s condition were raised all the way up to Delhi. Eventually, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari visited Gandhinagar, held a meeting, and directed officials to carry out repair work on the highway.
Rs 78.58 crore collected as penalty from vehicles without FASTag
Gujarat currently has 62 toll plazas on national highways, where toll fees range from Rs 70 to Rs 500 depending on whether it is a jeep/car or a heavy vehicle. In 2020-21, toll collection from motorists in Gujarat stood at Rs 1,196 crore. By 2024-25, the collection had nearly doubled, reaching Rs 2,113 crore during the period. Separately, Rs 78.58 crore was recovered as penalties from motorists who did not have FASTag.
Toll revenue surges despite bad roads
In effect, even with potholed and uneven highways, toll collections significantly boosted government revenue. Notably, toll collection has exceeded the amount spent on building the highways, with recoveries said to be roughly double the construction cost. Even with FASTag in place, long queues are still seen at toll plazas across Gujarat.
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