The toll booths on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH4) have reported a significant uptick in revenue, with collections reaching ₹1,352 million in 2024, slightly higher than the ₹1,349 million recorded in 2023.
This growth in revenue comes amidst increasing public dissatisfaction and opposition-led protests over the deteriorating condition of the roads, which has sparked a debate on the fairness of toll charges. Opposition parties in Maharashtra have been vocal in their demands for the suspension of tolls, arguing that it is unjust for commuters to continue paying for roads that are not adequately maintained. These demands have fuelled several protests across the state, reflecting widespread public frustration.
Despite this backdrop, recent financial reports indicate a robust increase in toll revenues. IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd and IRB Infrastructure Trust, the primary operators of these tolls, have reported a remarkable 32% surge in revenue for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. This upward trend continued into July 2024, with toll revenue rising by 37% year-on-year compared to July 2023. Specifically, IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd reported a toll collection of ₹499 crore in July 2024, up from ₹365 crore in July 2023. This 37% increase underscores the company’s strong financial performance despite the ongoing controversies surrounding road maintenance and toll charges.
IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd and IRB Infrastructure Trust are among India’s leading private infrastructure developers, managing assets worth approximately ₹80,000 crore across 12 states. The recent surge in toll revenue highlights the complex relationship between infrastructure development and public satisfaction, as the debate over road quality and toll collection continues to intensify. The situation presents a conundrum for policymakers and infrastructure managers, as they navigate the challenges of maintaining road quality while balancing financial imperatives. As the discussion over tolls and road conditions persists, it remains to be seen how the authorities will address the growing public discontent.
