Starting February, the National Highways Authority (NHA) has introduced a new toll policy aimed at encouraging motorists to use M-Tags for smoother toll collection. Under this policy, vehicles without an M-Tag will face a 25% surcharge on toll fees, significantly increasing the cost of travel.
Who Will Be Affected?
The surcharge applies to:
- Vehicles lacking an M-Tag.
- Motorists attempting to pay tolls in cash with insufficient balance in their M-Tag account.
To further discourage cash payments, the NHA has imposed a minimum extra charge of Rs. 50 on such transactions.
Why the Change?
This move aligns with the NHA’s mission to achieve 100% M-Tag compliance, which is expected to:
- Ensure smoother traffic flow at toll plazas.
- Streamline toll collection processes.
- Reduce the dependency on cash payments.
M-Tag Compliance in Punjab
Earlier, the Punjab government tightened M-Tag requirements to ensure better motorway management. Vehicle owners now need:
- Fitness certificates for commercial vehicles.
- Registration books for vehicle verification.
- Driver’s licenses for compliance checks.
What Should Motorists Do?
To avoid the additional charges, motorists are strongly advised to:
- Obtain an M-Tag from authorized centers.
- Maintain sufficient balance in their M-Tag accounts.
- Keep required vehicle documents updated.
Benefits of M-Tag
- Faster toll clearance and reduced waiting times.
- Cashless transactions for convenience.
- Transparent toll payment records.
As motorway travel becomes more reliant on digital toll solutions, getting an M-Tag is essential for a hassle-free journey and to avoid financial penalties. Stay updated and prepared to make your travels smoother and more cost-effective.
Fahad, a dynamic entrepreneur and fervent marketing enthusiast, channels his passion for contemporary trends into captivating written pieces. Beyond the business realm, he finds solace in the exhilaration of travel and the strategic thrill of tennis during leisure moments. Connect with Fahad’s insights on trending topics via his Twitter handle @fahad164. For inquiries and collaboration opportunities, reach out to him at fahad164@gmail.com or fahad@themediaparadigm.com.
