Many vehicle owners are unaware that Indian highway rules allow toll-free travel under specific conditions. According to government guidelines, drivers are not required to pay toll charges if certain facilities and service standards at toll plazas are not met.
Rule Related to Long Waiting Time
If vehicles are forced to wait beyond the permitted time limit at a toll plaza, toll collection must be stopped. When the queue exceeds a specified length or waiting time crosses the allowed limit, toll operators are legally required to open barriers and allow vehicles to pass without payment.
Distance-Based Toll Exemption Rule
Another important rule states that toll plazas cannot be set up within a minimum distance of another toll plaza. If two toll plazas are located too close to each other in violation of norms, toll charges may not be applicable until the issue is resolved.
Incomplete or Poor Road Conditions
Drivers are also eligible for toll-free travel if the road project is incomplete or not maintained as per standards. If construction work causes inconvenience, damaged roads, or unsafe driving conditions, toll collection can be suspended until the issue is fixed.
FASTag-Related Toll Exemption
In cases where FASTag lanes are not functioning properly or technical issues cause payment failure despite sufficient balance, vehicles should not be penalised. If delays occur due to system faults, toll-free passage may be allowed.
Emergency and Special Vehicles
Certain vehicles such as ambulances, fire brigades, military vehicles, and government emergency services are fully exempt from paying toll charges. These vehicles can pass through toll plazas without any payment under all conditions.
Who Can Raise a Complaint
If toll operators continue collecting charges despite rule violations, drivers have the right to lodge a complaint. Authorities can take strict action against toll plaza operators for illegal collection.
Why This Rule Exists
The toll-free travel rule ensures fairness and accountability. Toll fees are meant for road maintenance and convenience. When services are not delivered properly, charging motorists is considered unjustified under highway regulations.
What Drivers Should Remember
Motorists should stay aware of their rights at toll plazas. Knowing these rules can help drivers avoid unnecessary payments and ensure smooth travel, especially during peak traffic hours or construction delays.
Conclusion
The toll-free travel rule empowers drivers and ensures transparency in toll collection. If waiting times are excessive, roads are incomplete, or rules are violated, you may legally cross toll plazas without paying. Staying informed can save both time and money on highways.