Are Toll Rates Higher in India for Trucks and Buses?

If you’ve ever driven on India’s highways, you might have noticed that trucks and buses pay significantly higher tolls than cars or smaller vehicles. But why do heavy vehicles pay more? The answer lies in the way tolls are structured, the weight they carry, and the impact they have on road infrastructure.

How Toll Rates Are Determined

Toll rates in India are governed by the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The rates are primarily based on the type of vehicle, number of axles, and the distance covered on a tolled stretch.

Since trucks and buses have multiple axles and carry heavier loads, their toll charges are proportionally higher. A typical truck or multi-axle vehicle may pay anywhere from three to five times more than a car for the same route. The logic is simple — heavier vehicles cause more wear and tear to the road surface, leading to higher maintenance and repair costs.

The Impact of Axle Weight and Load

Each vehicle class has a predefined axle load limit, and toll rates increase with every additional axle. For instance, a two-axle truck pays less than a four-axle heavy-duty transporter. The greater the number of axles, the more strain it puts on the pavement structure.

This pricing model ensures that those who contribute more to road deterioration also contribute more towards its upkeep. It’s a globally accepted principle followed in most countries, and India’s toll policy mirrors that approach.

Revenue Allocation and Infrastructure Development

The money collected from tolls plays a key role in funding India’s massive road development projects under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It covers costs for the construction, maintenance, and expansion of highways. Trucks and buses, being commercial vehicles, indirectly support the very infrastructure they use daily through these toll payments.

The Transporters’ Perspective

While tolls are vital for infrastructure, transporters often argue that high rates add to operational costs, especially for long-haul routes. For fleet owners already dealing with rising fuel prices and maintenance expenses, toll charges form a significant portion of total logistics costs.

To ease congestion and delays, India is also moving towards FASTag-based tolling systems, which automate payments and reduce waiting times at toll plazas.

Conclusion

Yes, toll rates are indeed higher in India for trucks and buses — and for good reason. The higher tolls reflect the greater impact these vehicles have on roads and the need to maintain a sustainable transport infrastructure. However, balancing fair toll pricing with operational affordability remains key to keeping India’s logistics network efficient and cost-effective.