Toll Rates Surge by 50% in 2025.

1. Pakistan’s Major Highways

• Motorways (M-1 to M-5): Toll rates increased by 15–25%, with heavier vehicles (trucks, buses) facing the steepest hikes.
• Karachi-Lahore Highway: Rates rose by 20%, adding significant costs for long-haul transport.
• Islamabad-Peshawar Route: Light vehicles now pay 10–15% more, while commercial trucks face a 30% increase 15.

2. International Comparisons

• USA: The New Jersey Turnpike and Ohio Turnpike raised rates by 3–7.8%, while Oklahoma’s tolls jumped 15% 1.
• Europe: CO₂-based pricing pushed tolls up by 1.5–2% in Denmark and Germany for high-emission vehicles 3.
• India: The Delhi-Meerut Expressway and NH-9 saw tolls rise by INR 5–590, with trucks bearing the brunt 5.

3. Bridges and Tunnels

• Port Authority Crossings (NY/NJ): Toll rates per axle increased by $0.25, with annual increments planned through 2028 1.
• Elizabeth River Tunnels (USA): Peak-hour tolls for heavy vehicles surged by $1.62 per trip 1.

Why Are Toll Rates Rising?

1. Infrastructure Upgrades: Funds are needed for road repairs, expansions, and smart tolling systems.
2. Environmental Policies: Some regions (e.g., Europe) use tolls to discourage high-emission vehicles 3.
3. Inflation and Operational Costs: Rising fuel, labor, and material prices contribute to fee adjustments 15.

Impact on Drivers and Businesses

• Commuters: Daily travel costs are rising, especially for those using urban expressways.
• Transport Industry: Trucking companies may pass costs to consumers, raising prices for goods.
• Alternatives: Some drivers are switching to public transit or alternate routes to save money.