Motorists in Tamil Nadu will now face higher toll charges as revised rates have been implemented at 68 toll plazas on national and state highways. The increase, ranging from three to five percent, is part of the annual toll revision exercise. This adjustment is expected to impact transportation expenses and could potentially affect the prices of essential goods.
The latest revision affects 60 toll plazas on National Highways and eight on state highways. The hike varies between Rs 5 and Rs 40, depending on the vehicle category and toll location. Authorities have announced that the remaining 17 toll plazas in the state will also undergo a similar revision starting from September 1.
Key toll plazas in and around Chennai, including Paranur in Chengalpattu district, Vanagaram, Athur, Surapattu, Nallur, and Sriperumbudur, have been included in the revised toll structure. These locations experience significant daily traffic due to their proximity to industrial corridors and residential areas. Other important areas where the toll increase has been implemented include Kappalur, Samayapuram, and Nanguneri.
At the Paranur toll plaza, a popular route along the GST Road corridor, charges have marginally increased for most vehicle categories. While the toll for cars remains at Rs 75, fees for light motor vehicles have been raised to Rs 120 from Rs 115. Buses and trucks will now be charged Rs 250, up from Rs 245.
The revised rates also impact heavy vehicles. Charges for three-axle vehicles have increased to Rs 275 from Rs 270. Vehicles with more than five axles will now pay Rs 395, compared to the previous Rs 385, while those with more than seven axles will be charged Rs 480, up from Rs 470. Officials from the highways department have clarified that the revision is part of the standard annual adjustment mechanism linked to inflation and maintenance costs.
Transport operators have raised concerns about the cumulative impact of even marginal increases on logistics expenses, which could eventually be passed on to consumers. Given that freight movement is vital to the state’s economy, the toll revision is expected to be closely monitored for its broader economic implications in the coming months.
