KP Govt Proposes 20% Increase in Swat Expressway Toll Tax
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has proposed an increase in toll tax on the Swat Expressway Phase One, citing the province’s difficult financial situation and the need to generate additional revenue.
According to officials, the provincial government has proposed a 20 percent increase in the existing toll rates of the Swat Expressway. The proposal was included in the agenda of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cabinet and was scheduled to be presented for approval during the 57th provincial cabinet meeting.
However, the cabinet meeting scheduled for August 21 was postponed, meaning the proposed increase has not yet received final approval from the provincial cabinet.
Under the proposed revision, the toll tax on the Swat Expressway would increase from the existing Rs270 to Rs324, reflecting a 20 percent rise in the current rate.
Officials said the final implementation of the revised toll rates will depend on approval by the provincial cabinet. Once approved, the new rates would be applicable according to the government’s notified schedule.
The proposed increase comes as the KP government faces financial pressures and seeks to strengthen its revenue collection. The Swat Expressway is an important road link for traffic travelling between different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Malakand region, and changes in toll rates could directly affect daily commuters, transporters and other road users.
The proposed hike has also raised concerns among citizens who are already facing increased transportation and travel costs. An additional increase in toll charges could further increase the cost of travelling on the expressway, particularly for people who use the route frequently.
The development comes after toll rates on several motorways and highways have also been revised, adding to concerns about the growing financial burden on motorists.
The provincial cabinet’s final decision will determine whether the proposed 20 percent increase on Swat Expressway Phase One is implemented.
