Controversy Surrounds Bangalore-Mysore Expressway Toll Hike.
The Bangalore-Mysore Expressway has been a contentious issue since its inception, and now, a year after its inauguration, another toll rate increase has sparked public outrage. The Indian National Highways Authority (INHA) has announced a 3% toll hike effective from April 1, 2024, citing the wholesale price index.
This marks the third toll increase within a short period. The first hike occurred in April 2023, followed by a 22% increase in June of the same year, both of which faced strong opposition from motorists.
Under the revised fare structure, one-way journeys for cars/vans/jeeps on the Bangalore-Nidhaghatta expressway will cost Rs 170, with a return journey within 24 hours priced at Rs 255. Previously, these rates stood at Rs 165 and Rs 250 respectively.
Similarly, one-way fares for light commercial vehicles, goods vehicles, and minibusses have been set at Rs 275, with a return journey priced at Rs 425, up from Rs 270 and Rs 405 previously.
Heavy trucks and buses will now pay Rs 580 for a one-way journey and Rs 870 for a round trip, whereas on the Nidaghatta-Mysore expressway, one-way fares for cars/vans/jeeps are set at Rs 160 and Rs 240 for a round trip, totaling Rs 330 for a one-way journey between Bangalore and Mysore.
In addition to the expressway, toll fees on Bangalore’s Satellite Town Ring Road have also been increased, despite being fixed just six months ago. Cars/vans/jeeps now face a one-way charge of Rs 80 and Rs 120 for a round trip, while light commercial vehicles, goods vehicles, and minibusses will pay Rs 130 for a one-way journey and Rs 200 for a round trip. Heavy vehicles face a one-way charge of Rs 275 and a round-trip charge of Rs 415.
