Toll Charges on Hyderabad Outer Ring Road Increased; New Rates Effective from Midnight
Hyderabad: Commuters using the Hyderabad Outer Ring Road (ORR) will have to pay more from midnight, as toll charges are set to increase across all vehicle categories. The Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited (HGCL), which manages the ORR, has announced the revised rates, citing annual inflation adjustments, maintenance costs, and infrastructure development as key reasons for the hike.
Revised Toll Rates by Vehicle Category
Under the new tariff structure:
- Cars, jeeps, and vans will see a 10 paise per kilometer increase.
- Minibuses and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) will be charged an additional 20 paise per kilometer.
- Buses and two-axle vehicles will experience an increase from ₹6.69 per kilometer to ₹7 per kilometer.
- Heavy vehicles, including multi-axle trucks and trailers, will now pay ₹15.78 per kilometer, up from ₹15.09.
Why the Hike?
HGCL officials explained that the increase aligns with the concession agreement with private toll operators, which allows periodic adjustments based on inflation and operational costs. The hike, they argue, is essential for:
- Regular maintenance and repairs to ensure smooth traffic flow.
- Expansion of ORR infrastructure, including additional entry and exit points.
- Safety enhancements, such as better lighting, CCTV surveillance, and emergency services.
Impact on Commuters and Transport Sector
The ORR, a 158-kilometer, eight-lane expressway, is a vital corridor that connects key parts of Hyderabad and facilitates the movement of goods and passengers. While the toll increase is relatively small for private vehicles, commercial transport operators, logistics firms, and public transport services are expected to be significantly affected.
Logistics and freight companies have raised concerns that the increased toll costs will eventually be passed on to consumers through higher transportation charges, leading to price hikes in essential goods. Similarly, bus operators and ride-hailing services may also revise their fares, impacting daily commuters.
Public Reactions and Demands
While HGCL insists that the toll revision is necessary for long-term infrastructure sustainability, regular users and transport associations have expressed dissatisfaction. Many commuters believe that the ORR toll rates should come with improved facilities, such as:
- Additional exits for better accessibility to growing residential hubs.
- More service areas with fuel stations and rest stops.
- Enhanced safety measures, including quick-response breakdown assistance.
A section of the public has also called for exemptions or discounts for daily users, such as IT employees and business owners who rely on the ORR for regular travel. Some transport unions have urged the government to consider subsidies or alternate toll payment models to reduce the burden on commercial vehicles.
Authorities’ Response
HGCL has assured that the revenue from the revised toll will be used transparently for infrastructure improvements and road maintenance. Officials emphasized that the ORR remains one of the best-maintained expressways in the country and that periodic adjustments are necessary to keep up with rising costs and increasing vehicle traffic.
With the revised toll rates coming into effect at midnight, commuters and transport operators are advised to plan their expenses accordingly. The hike may be a minor inconvenience for private vehicle owners, but its broader impact on Hyderabad’s transportation economy remains to be seen.
