On June 1, 2025, the National Highways Authority (NHA) announced a 50% additional toll tax on non-M-Tag and low-balance vehicles across Pakistan’s motorway network, effective June 15, 2025.
The NHA’s M-Tag toll tax initiative aims to fully implement the system, enhancing efficiency as detailed in an NHA press release.
The revised tolls, which include a 50% penalty, apply to several motorways:
| Motorway / Expressway | Route | Car Toll (Rs) | Truck Toll (Rs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| M-1 | Islamabad–Peshawar | 1,800 | — |
| M-2 | Lahore–Islamabad | — | 7,900 (2-3 axles) 10,200 (articulated) |
| M-3 | Lahore–Abdul Hakim | 1,200 | — |
| M-3 | Pindi Bhattian–Multan | — | — |
| M-4 | Faisalabad–Multan | 1,600 | — |
| M-5 | Multan–Sukkur | 1,800 | — |
| M-9 | Karachi–Hyderabad | — | — |
| M-14 | D.I. Khan–Hakla | 1,000 | — |
| E-35 | Hassanabdal–Mansehra | 450 | — |
To avoid penalties, NHA urges drivers to register for M-Tags at toll plazas or authorised centres. The M-Tag registration 2025 drive supports a digital toll system, reducing congestion.
The increase in Pakistan motorway tolls supports NHA’s modernisation initiatives, coinciding with Pakistan’s growth target of 4.2% for 2025-26. Higher tolls may influence transport costs, affecting both commuters and businesses. The NHA’s toll rates policy aligns with global trends in digital transitions.
The NHA M-Tag toll tax shifts to a fully digital toll system, streamlining Pakistan’s motorways but challenging non-compliant drivers. The non-M-Tag penalty could reshape travel economics, drawing attention to infrastructure modernisation in 2025.
