Govt withdraws increase in toll taxes on highways amid rising fuel prices

• NHA is focused on high-quality projects: minister.
• Toll tax not increased in FY 2025–26.
• New charges scheduled to be effective from April 5.

The National Highways Authority (NHA) withdrew the notification of a quarterly increase in toll taxes on Friday, following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, amid the current economic situation and rising petroleum prices.

The move, aimed at providing relief to the public amid prevailing economic challenges, was announced by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, saying that the NHA would withdraw its notification issued on April 1 and halt the increase that was scheduled to be effective from April 5, according to a press release issued on Friday.

Following the minister’s instructions, a fresh notification has been issued formally, cancelling the earlier decision.

Aleem Khan said that given the current economic situation and the rising prices of petrol and diesel, the masses are already facing difficulties; therefore, it would not be appropriate to place any additional financial burden on them.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing relief to the public in accordance with the prime minister’s directives, which will be ensured.

The NHA had not implemented any increase in toll tax during the fiscal year 2025–26.

Earlier, on March 24, NHA had announced an increase in toll tax on national highways and motorways, which was set to take effect from April 1.