Toll hike hits Bengaluru commuters again

Commuters in Bengaluru faced a fresh blow as toll rates were hiked at two major toll points on Hosur Road, effective from midnight on Monday. The increased rates affect users of the Electronic City Elevated Expressway and the Attibele toll plaza, both crucial corridors connecting Karnataka with Tamil Nadu.

The hike is based on the wholesale price index as of March 31, leading to revised charges for different categories of vehicles. For cars, jeeps, and vans using the Elevated Expressway, the one-way toll has gone up to ₹65 from ₹60, while a same-day return trip now costs ₹95. Monthly passes now stand at ₹1,885. Buses and trucks are seeing a more significant increase, with one-way travel costing ₹175 (previously ₹170), and monthly passes at ₹5,275. Multi-axle vehicles must now pay ₹350 per trip and ₹10,550 monthly. Meanwhile, toll charges at Attibele have also been raised by ₹5 across most vehicle categories. Cars will now pay ₹40 (up from ₹35), mini-buses and light vehicles ₹65 (up from ₹60), and trucks or buses ₹125 (up from ₹120). Multi-axle vehicles must now pay ₹265 per trip.

Two-wheelers remain unaffected by the toll hike on the elevated road. The sudden increase has left daily commuters frustrated, especially those who depend on these routes for work and business. Authorities have stated that the revisions were routine and in line with the annual adjustment policy, but regular travelers are now bracing for increased monthly commuting costs.