The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has implemented measures to facilitate smoother traffic flow at toll plazas. Yet, lengthy queues persist, often due to misconceptions regarding toll exemptions. Understanding NHAI guidelines is crucial, as only specific vehicle categories enjoy toll tax exemptions.
Exempted Vehicle Categories
NHAI specifies five categories exempt from toll tax:
- Emergency services
- Defense services
- VIP vehicles
- Public transportation
- Two-wheelers
Emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire brigades, and police vehicles are exempted, alongside defense vehicles under Army, Navy, or Air Force service. VIP vehicles, transporting dignitaries from Presidents to High Court judges, also enjoy exemption. Public transport vehicles and state government-operated two-wheelers are likewise exempt, with exceptions for two-wheelers at select National Highway plazas.
Notable Exemptions: Who Doesn’t Pay Toll Tax
The following individuals and positions are exempt from toll tax:
- President of India
- Vice President of India
- Prime Minister of India
- Governor of any state
- Chief Justice of India
- Speaker of Lok Sabha
- Cabinet Minister
- Chief Minister of a State
- Supreme Court Judge
- Member of Parliament
- Union Minister of State
- Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory
- Chief of Staff with the rank of full general or equivalent rank
- Chairman of the Legislative Council of a State
- Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of a State
- High Court Chief Justice
- High Court Judge
- Member of Parliament
- Army Commanders of the Chief of Army Staff and Equivalents in other services
- Chief Secretary to the State Government
- Secretary, Council of States
- Lok Sabha, Secretary
Special Situations: Potential Exemptions
While civilian cars aren’t exempt, NHAI’s updated guidelines mandate toll plazas to maintain efficient service. If queues exceed 100 meters or service time surpasses 10 seconds per vehicle, toll staff must allow free passage until the queue shortens to within 100 meters. Yellow line markers on toll lanes indicate this limit, fostering accountability among plaza operators.
Understanding NHAI guidelines empowers motorists to navigate toll plazas efficiently and assert their entitlements to exemptions.
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