Travel on Chandigarh-Manali highway to get costlier as 2 toll plazas set to resume operations

In a move likely to burden both locals and tourists, toll tax collection is set to resume at two key plazas — Takoli and Dohlunala — on the Chandigarh-Manali four-lane highway by the end of November 2024.

These toll barriers had been non-functional since a natural disaster struck the area in 2023, but after 16 months, toll operations are now returning.

The resumption will make journeys along the scenic yet challenging Mandi-Manali route more expensive, with toll rates expected to be based on the current status of road repairs along the four-lane highway.

Public outcry over poor road conditions

Local residents and frequent travellers have expressed frustration over paying toll on what many describe as a deteriorating road.

Vinay Chauhan, a taxi driver from Kullu, voiced concerns about how toll collection would add to the expenses of drivers. “We already pay a green tax when we reach Manali,” he pointed out.

“Adding two tolls along the way will only make it harder for taxi drivers to operate on this route, especially with the poor road conditions.”

Vinay and other drivers say that with the roads still in poor shape following the disaster, the government should focus on repairs before reinstating tolls.

Currently, the fare from Kullu to Manali stands at Rs 1,500, but with the added tolls, drivers worry they would struggle to cover vehicle expenses like fuel and maintenance.

Rising taxi fares and tourist deterrent

Another taxi driver, Anil Thakur, highlighted the issue of dwindling tourist numbers in Kullu-Manali due to road conditions. “With high fuel costs and poor road conditions, tourists are already hesitant to visit.

The added toll will just push them further away,” he said. He pointed out that for many drivers, the combined effect of increased toll costs and low tourism could affect their ability to pay vehicle installments.