Jalandhar: In another move aimed at easing travel costs and improving road accessibility, the Punjab government has officially closed the toll plaza on the Jagraon–Nakodar Road in Jalandhar district. The decision, which comes nearly 18 months ahead of schedule, means commuters using the route will no longer have to pay toll fees.
Originally, the toll plaza was scheduled to operate until May 15, 2027, but a recent government notification confirmed that the collection has been permanently discontinued. With this, the Jagraon–Nakodar toll plaza becomes the 19th such facility to be closed since the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) took office in the state more than three years ago.
Government to Maintain Roads Directly
Officials announced that road maintenance and upkeep on this stretch will now be fully managed by the Public Works Department (PWD). The move marks a shift away from the earlier public-private partnership (PPP) model under which toll plazas were operated.
A government spokesperson said the closure is part of Punjab’s broader strategy to reduce transportation costs and enhance travel convenience for residents, particularly those who commute frequently for work and trade. “Our goal is to make travel easier and more affordable for people across Punjab while ensuring that the road network remains well-maintained,” the spokesperson said.
Part of a Larger Toll-Free Initiative
According to official figures, the 18 toll plazas previously closed under the current administration generated approximately ₹222 crore annually. Despite the loss of revenue, the state government has emphasized that public convenience and regional development take priority.
The government maintains that these closures have already led to smoother traffic flow and improved logistics efficiency, benefiting both individual commuters and commercial transporters.
A Relief for Commuters
Local motorists have welcomed the move, calling it a “much-needed relief” amid rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. The Jagraon–Nakodar route is a key connector between central and western Punjab, frequently used by farmers, traders, and daily commuters.
With the latest closure, the AAP-led government continues to advance its campaign to make major roadways toll-free, reflecting its commitment to people-centric infrastructure policies.
The state has pledged to continue monitoring road quality on previously tolled routes, ensuring that the shift to government maintenance does not compromise travel standards.
In a state where road transport remains the backbone of commerce and daily life, the end of toll collection on yet another major route stands as a visible step toward the government’s promise of accessible, affordable, and efficient mobility for all.
