Talwandi Kalan: Travelling through Punjab’s Ladowal Toll Plaza has become more expensive once again, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) implementing a fresh hike in toll charges just over three months after the previous revision. The updated rates have come into force immediately, increasing the travel cost for private motorists as well as commercial transport operators.
Under the revised tariff, drivers of cars, jeeps and vans will now pay Rs 235 for a one-way journey, compared to the earlier Rs 225. Similar revisions have been made across all categories of vehicles, with the increase ranging from Rs 10 to Rs 60, depending on the type and size of the vehicle.
The latest revision comes after an earlier increase introduced on April 1, when the toll fee for private cars was raised by Rs 5. With the new adjustment, motorists are now paying ₹10 more than the previous rate, taking the overall increase in just a few months to Rs 15.
Ladowal Toll Plaza, situated near Ludhiana on National Highway-44, is among the busiest and highest revenue-generating toll plazas in northern India. It serves as a key transit point for passenger vehicles, freight carriers and interstate transport moving between Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir.
The fresh increase has sparked disappointment among frequent travellers, particularly office-goers, transporters and business owners who use the route regularly. Many commuters argued that repeated revisions in toll charges are adding to their monthly travel expenses at a time when fuel prices and vehicle maintenance costs remain significant.
Commercial vehicle operators also expressed concern, saying higher toll expenses eventually translate into increased transportation costs, which could have an impact on logistics and the prices of essential goods.
Officials maintain that toll revisions are carried out in accordance with NHAI’s prescribed fee structure and are linked to periodic financial calculations. However, for thousands of daily commuters passing through Ladowal, the latest revision means another increase in the cost of road travel within a relatively short period.
