Rising Toll Charges on NH-16 Strain Commuters’ Finances

The recent steep hike in toll charges on National Highway 16 (NH-16) is imposing a significant financial burden on vehicle users, especially those commuting between Palasa and Visakhapatnam. Travelers must now pay ₹340 across three toll plazas—Laxmipuram, Madapam, and Natavalasa—compared to previous rates of ₹50 to ₹70 per plaza.

Critics argue that these increases, set by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), lack stakeholder consultation and disproportionately impact those with older, less valuable vehicles. Additionally, the doubling of charges due to insufficient FASTag balance and the partial reduction for same-day return trips add to the financial strain, prompting calls for more equitable toll policies and potential toll gate removals.