TTU: In response to recent media reports suggesting that the Government of India may introduce toll charges for two-wheelers, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has firmly denied any such move. In a statement issued through its verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, NHAI categorically stated that no proposal to levy user fees on two-wheelers is under consideration at this time.
Official Statement Labels Rumours as #FakeNews
The clarification came after various news outlets and social media posts began circulating claims that the government was planning to extend toll charges to two-wheeled vehicles. This triggered widespread concern among daily commuters and small vehicle owners, who feared a hike in their transportation costs.
Addressing the misinformation, NHAI tweeted:
“#FactCheck: Some sections of the media have reported that the Government of India plans to levy user fees on two-wheelers. #NHAI would like to clarify that no such proposal is under consideration. There are no plans to introduce toll charges for two-wheelers. #FakeNews”
This official statement from NHAI aims to put an end to the speculation and reassure the public that the existing toll policy remains unchanged for two-wheelers.
Two-Wheelers Remain Exempt Under Current Policy
Currently, two-wheelers are exempt from toll charges on national highways across the country. This exemption is part of the broader framework that aims to make daily commuting more affordable for the majority of India’s population, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas where two-wheelers remain a primary mode of transport.
Public and Expert Reactions to NHAI’s Clarification
Transport analysts and public policy experts have welcomed the clarification. “Two-wheelers form a major chunk of India’s traffic. Introducing tolls on them would have been both logistically difficult and economically burdensome for the common man,” said Ramesh Dutt, a transport economist based in Delhi.
The rumour had also raised concerns among delivery personnel, gig economy workers, and small traders who rely heavily on two-wheelers for their livelihood. Several associations had even started informal campaigns online opposing any such move, urging the government to consider the socio-economic impact of tolling two-wheelers.
NHAI Reinforces Its Commitment to Clear Communication
With NHAI’s prompt intervention and transparent communication, these concerns have now been addressed. The agency’s use of the hashtags #FactCheck and #FakeNews highlights its commitment to fighting misinformation and providing accurate updates regarding national infrastructure policies.
Citizens Urged to Trust Verified Sources
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has also maintained its stance that tolling policies are framed keeping in mind vehicle categories, infrastructure costs, and economic viability. For now, two-wheelers will continue to be exempt from paying tolls, ensuring that the current system of road usage remains equitable for all sections of society.
As always, NHAI urges citizens to rely only on verified sources for any updates related to highway tolls and infrastructure developments. The public can follow NHAI’s official social media handles or visit their website for accurate and real-time information.
