The Centre is considering changes to the list of vehicles exempt from paying tolls on national highways, a move that could require some senior government officials to start paying user fees at toll plazas.
According to reports, a high-level committee set up by the government has recommended amendments to the National Highways Fee Rules, with the long-term goal of reducing or even eliminating several categories of toll exemptions. Discussions on the proposal are currently underway with different stakeholders.
Senior officials may be affected first
The first category likely to be impacted includes vehicles attached to senior Central and state government officers.As per news18 reports the officials familiar with the discussions told media outlets that the proposal is part of a broader effort to reduce perceptions of VIP culture.
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"The proposal to begin this exercise with govt officers is under active consideration. There is a focus on doing away with VIP culture as this doesn't go down well with common citizens," . As per news18 report a person aware of the development told The Times of India.
Currently, vehicles carrying or accompanying people holding 25 designated public offices enjoy toll exemptions. These include constitutional and public office holders such as the President, Prime Minister, Governors, Chief Ministers, Chief Justice of India and Members of Parliament.
What may remain unchanged
Several categories are expected to continue receiving exemptions because of the nature of their duties. These include vehicles used for official purposes by defence personnel, armed forces, paramilitary forces, executive magistrates, fire services and emergency vehicles such as ambulances and funeral vans. Vehicles involved in highway inspection and maintenance activities are also currently exempt.
FASTag annual pass seen as an alternative
The discussions come as the government promotes the FASTag Annual Pass scheme. Officials have reportedly suggested that government departments could reimburse employees for annual FASTag passes instead of seeking toll exemptions.
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The annual pass currently costs Rs 3,075 and allows up to 200 toll plaza crossings before renewal is required. Authorities believe the system could offer a simpler and more transparent alternative to exemption-based travel.
No final decision yet
As per the reports of news18 ,the proposal remains under discussion, and no formal notification has been issued. However, if implemented, it would mark one of the most significant changes to the toll exemption framework in recent years and could gradually reduce the number of vehicles eligible for toll-free travel on national highways.
