The long-awaited closed toll system on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway is expected to be completed by mid-2027, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) initiating the process to set up toll booths at 28 identified points along the highway. The NHAI has begun the tendering process, with bidders set to be finalized soon, and construction is expected to commence within the next six months.
The project, estimated to cost ₹711 crore, will span two years and include essential infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of railway overbridges on the service road, along with underpasses and overpasses where required. According to senior NHAI officials, the new toll system will allow vehicles to pay based on the distance they travel, rather than a flat fee, in line with Indian Road Congress (IRC) standards. This is expected to alleviate pressure on the service road and reduce congestion, particularly at entry and exit points.
Key entry/exit locations like Bidadi, Maddur, Malur, and Ramanagara will feature these toll booths. The new toll points are designed to encourage drivers, especially those traveling to nearby towns and villages, to use the access-controlled highway instead of avoiding the toll by using the service road. This could help address the persistent traffic congestion observed around the Kaniminike toll plaza and along the service road, which often sees vehicles bypassing the toll plaza to avoid fees.
Recent traffic jams, such as one extending to Kengeri bus terminal, have underscored the need for such improvements. On busy days, especially long weekends or festive periods, traffic congestion on the service road is exacerbated as a significant portion of vehicles divert to avoid toll payments.
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