The central government is considering a revision of the existing rules governing toll exemptions on national highways, with a view to reducing the number of categories currently exempted.

As per available information, a high-level committee has recommended changes to the National Highways Fee Rules, suggesting that several exemptions be removed to streamline the system.

At present, vehicles associated with individuals holding any of 25 high public offices — including the President, Prime Minister, Governors, Chief Ministers, Members of Parliament, and the Chief Justice of India — are exempt from paying toll charges.

Additionally, vehicles used by defence personnel, central and state armed forces in uniform, paramilitary forces, executive magistrates, and fire services are also exempt when used for official duties.

Emergency vehicles such as ambulances and funeral vans, as well as those deployed for highway inspection work, are similarly excluded from toll payments.

The proposed reform aims to rationalise these exemptions, with initial indications suggesting that the category of “secretaries to the Government of India” could be among the first to lose this privilege.

The broader intent appears to be reducing misuse, improving toll revenue collection, and ensuring a more uniform application of user charges across categories.

If implemented, these changes may mark a shift towards a stricter and more transparent toll policy framework, where exemptions are limited to only essential and emergency services.The road transport ministry is expected to examine the committee’s recommendations before taking a final decision on amending the rules.