In a significant move, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has announced toll tax exemptions for 16 specific categories, ensuring a hassle-free journey for emergency service providers, government officials, disabled individuals, and farmers on the National Highways.
Exemption to Emergency Service Providers:
- Fire Brigades and Ambulances: Vehicles belonging to emergency services like fire brigades and ambulances are now allowed to pass through toll plazas without paying any toll tax.
- Quick Response During Emergencies: The government has introduced this exemption to facilitate a quick and efficient response from emergency services during critical situations.
Toll Tax Exemptions for Government Officials:
- High-Ranking Officials: The exemption extends to high-ranking officials, including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Governor, Chief Minister, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of the High Court, MPs, and MLAs.
- Uniformed Forces: Police, army, and paramilitary forces in uniform are also exempted from toll tax when traveling on the national highway.
Toll Tax Exemptions for Disabled People and Farmers:
- Disabled Individuals: Those with disabilities are granted toll tax exemptions, especially when they present their disabled certificate while passing through toll plazas with their tricycles.
- Farmers’ Waiver: Some state governments in India have taken a step further by waiving toll tax for farmers, acknowledging their vital role in the nation’s agriculture sector.
In summary, these toll tax exemptions are a concerted effort by the government to facilitate smooth and quick movement for emergency services and provide financial relief to specific groups facing economic challenges.
