Ganga Expressway: Toll Collection Begins after Toll-Free Trial

The Ganga Expressway, inaugurated by PM Modi, commenced toll collection after a 15-day free period for public trial. The 594-km expressway, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj, aims to enhance connectivity in Uttar Pradesh. Tolls vary by vehicle type, with a maximum for seven-plus axle vehicles.

Toll collection on the newly inaugurated Ganga Expressway started on Friday, concluding a 15-day trial period during which users traveled free of charge. This expressway, opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on April 29, spans an impressive 594 kilometers, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj. The toll-free period, organized by the Uttar Pradesh government, aimed to familiarize the public with this massive infrastructural addition.

The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) coordinated this initiative, halting tolls through IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd and Adani Infrastructure. The expressway was built under a public-private partnership on a design, build, finance, operate, and transfer basis, with toll collection rights granted for 27 years. Any revenue missed during the toll-free fortnight will be compensated by either the state government or UPEIDA as per the contractual agreement.

Tolls are now set based on vehicle classification, with light motor vehicles incurring a total cost of approximately ₹1,800 for the full journey. Lighter vehicles like two-wheelers and tractors are set to pay around ₹905, while charges for buses, trucks, and other heavy vehicles can reach up to ₹11,265 for the entire route.