In a move that will affect commuters nationwide, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has increased toll taxes on essential highways and motorways.
On Tuesday, the NHA announced a toll increase of up to 30% on major national highways and motorways, effective October 1, 2024.
This hike affects routes like the M1, M4, and M5 motorways, leading to higher travel costs for commuters.
According to the NHA’s recent notification, the toll for cars on the M1 Motorway, which connects Islamabad to Peshawar, has increased from Rs 350 to Rs 460.
Similarly, travelers on the M3 Motorway from Lahore to Abdul Hakeem will now pay Rs 650, up from Rs 500.
The toll on the M4 Motorway, linking Pindi Bhattian to Faisalabad and Multan, has also seen a significant rise, with car owners now paying Rs 850, up from Rs 650.
Additionally, the toll for cars on the M5 Motorway from Multan to Sukkur has surged from Rs 900 to Rs 50,000 due to a clerical error in the initial announcement, which authorities are expected to correct shortly.
These changes are part of a wider pattern of toll rate increases across Pakistan’s highway system.
In August 2024, the NHA had already raised the toll on the M2 Motorway, connecting Lahore and Islamabad.
The ongoing hikes have sparked concerns among travelers as commuting costs continue to climb.