Govt holds back increase in toll tax

ISLAMABAD:

The federal government has scrapped a proposed quarterly increase in toll taxes on roads, stepping back from a decision that risked compounding financial strain on motorists already grappling with high fuel costs and inflationary pressure across the country.

The move was formalised after Communications Minister Aleem Khan, while acting on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, instructed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to withdraw its April 1 notification, which had scheduled revised toll rates from April 5.

A fresh notification was subsequently issued, cancelling the increase in full. Officials said the decision was taken in view of prevailing economic realities, with the minister noting that any additional burden on the public would be unjustified under current conditions.

The minister reiterated that relief measures aligned with the prime minister's directives would remain a priority, adding that no toll increase had been implemented during the 2025–26 fiscal year.

During a high-level NHA meeting, the communication minister shifted focus to infrastructure expansion, describing the Karachi Port-Hyderabad Motorway (M-10) as the country's "economic lifeline".

The planned eight-lane corridor is expected to strengthen port-to-inland connectivity while easing urban congestion, particularly in key commercial zones. He directed authorities to engage international consultants and leading engineers to initiate feasibility studies and preliminary work without delay.

The project blueprint includes modern rest areas and commercial facilities.