Bengaluru airport toll raises eyebrows as collection crosses double the construction cost

The Sadahalli toll plaza near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has collected over ₹1,577 crore in the last decade—more than double its initial construction cost of ₹680 crore. In FY 2023–24 alone, the toll collection exceeded ₹308 crore, raising serious concerns about fairness and transparency.

On April 1, 2025, the toll was increased again, despite already high revenues. Vehicles heading to and from the airport must now pay ₹120 for a one-way trip and ₹180 for a same-day return. Commuters argue that this is unjustified for a distance of just 22.12 km. K. Radhakrishna Holla,

President of the Karnataka Travels Owners Association, pointed out that around 90,000 to 1 lakh vehicles cross the toll daily. He questioned why the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) continues to raise charges despite having recovered the construction cost long ago. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had previously stated that once the construction cost is recovered, only maintenance fees should be collected. Commuters now demand the implementation of this promise.

If toll collection continues at the current pace, it is projected to cross ₹5,000 crore by 2031—over 700% of the original construction cost. Citizens are urging the government to reduce toll rates and share detailed audit reports on the actual expenditure towards road maintenance and safety.