Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has categorically denied any plans to levy toll tax on two-wheelers across India’s national highways. The clarification comes after a flurry of media reports and social media posts suggested that two-wheeler riders would soon be required to pay tolls, sparking confusion and concern among millions of commuters.
Gadkari explained that two-wheeler owners already pay road tax at the time of vehicle purchase, which is one of the reasons they are exempt from additional toll charges on national highways. This longstanding policy is designed to alleviate the financial burden on lower-income travelers and reduce congestion at toll plazas, ensuring smoother and more affordable travel for the majority of Indian commuters.
The recent wave of misinformation appears to have been triggered by the government’s announcement of a new FASTag-based annual pass for private four-wheelers, set to launch on August 15, 2025. This annual pass, priced at ₹3,000, allows up to 200 toll-free trips or one year of unlimited access for cars, jeeps, and vans. However, some media outlets erroneously reported that a similar system would be applied to two-wheelers, leading to widespread confusion.
As of now, two-wheelers remain fully exempt from toll charges on all national highways and expressways in India. The government has reiterated its commitment to this policy, ensuring that two-wheeler riders can continue to enjoy toll-free travel. However, it is important to note that two-wheelers are not permitted on certain access-controlled highways and expressways for safety reasons.
The Centre’s robust clarification aims to put an end to the confusion and reassure the public. With over 200 million two-wheelers on Indian roads, this exemption remains a significant relief for daily commuters, delivery personnel, and rural travelers alike.
The Centre’s unequivocal stance ensures that India’s two-wheeler riders remain shielded from additional road charges, preserving affordability and ease of movement. As the government continues to expand and modernize the country’s highway infrastructure, it reaffirms its commitment to policies that prioritize the interests of the common citizen.
