Peshawar Court Blocks Extra Toll for Non-M-Tag Users on M1

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has ordered a suspension of additional toll charges for non-M-Tag vehicles using the M-1 Motorway. The court has also requested that the National Highway Authority (NHA) provide a comprehensive toll tax policy.

According to the news report by Tribune, a two-judge bench, comprising Justice Muhammad Naeem Anwar and Justice Kamran Hayat Miankhel, heard three petitions challenging recent toll hikes and additional fees under the new scheme.

During the proceedings, petitioners argued that toll rates were increased multiple times in 2024, in violation of the officially approved policy, which allows revisions only once every three years. 

They also highlighted that the toll exemptions for trips under 35 km were being disregarded, as motorists are charged Rs. 70 even for a 20 km journey to Charsadda. 

The petitioners’ lawyer further raised concerns that the frequent toll hikes violated citizens’ rights to free movement, a point the court supported.

The judges instructed the NHA to submit the full toll tax policy. They issued an interim order halting the collection of extra charges from non-M-Tag vehicles until further notice.

The hearing was adjourned until December 10, when the court will review the submitted toll policy for compliance.