ISLAMABAD: In a major relief move, the government has withdrawn the planned 25 percent quarterly increase in toll tax on national highways and motorways. The decision was taken on the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and announced by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan.
The move comes shortly after the National Highway Authority issued a notification revising toll rates effective April 5. The proposed quarterly increase had triggered concern among commuters and transporters already facing rising fuel costs.
Officials said the withdrawal aims to ease financial pressure on the public and stabilise transport costs across the country. The government has decided that no additional quarterly hike will be implemented at this stage, providing immediate relief to daily commuters and logistics operators.
Sources within the Ministry of Communications said the decision reflects the government’s intent to balance revenue generation with public affordability. Authorities are now expected to review alternative mechanisms to sustain highway maintenance without burdening motorists.
Transport sector representatives have welcomed the move, calling it timely amid increasing operational costs. They noted that avoiding frequent toll hikes would help maintain fare stability and prevent further inflationary pressure on goods transportation.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to improving road infrastructure while ensuring that policy decisions remain sensitive to public concerns. Officials indicated that future revisions, if any, would be carefully evaluated in consultation with stakeholders.
