ISLAMABAD: The National Highways Authority (NHA) has increased toll tax rates from Rs5 to Rs150 for different categories of vehicles using the Grand Trunk Road, it has been learnt. However, the decision to introduce the new rates has not been formally announced.

A similar increase was also made last year. While toll tax rates are enhanced on a regular basis, there has been no improvement in the condition of roads for a long time. There are potholes and scratches on roads which at places are even totally broken, creating risks for fatal accidents.

According one official, the main reason for the deteriorating state of highways is low quality material that is used by contractors allegedly in connivance with the NHA officials.

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The increase in toll tax rates has been made in accordance with the pressure of vehicles. Heavy vehicles causing damage to roads will be paying the highest tax as compared to cars and other small vehicles for which the increase is the lowest, an NHA official said.

When asked about making the increase without a prior announcement, NHA Chairman Shahid Ashraf Tarar said there was a procedure that had been followed for raising the toll tax rates. To a question, Mr Tarar said he was on Eid holidays and therefore unable to give further details.

Published in Dawn, Aug 2nd , 2014