IHC Unifies Cases on Toll Tax Hike and M-Tag Mandate
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has combined all legal petitions challenging the recent increase in toll tax rates, the imposition of higher fines, and the mandatory implementation of the M-Tag system for motorway users. This consolidation aims to streamline the hearing process, which has been postponed until next week.
Toll Tax Rates and Legal Proceedings
Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar presided over the proceedings initiated by the Judicial Activism Panel, raising concerns over the significant hikes in toll charges that have surpassed Rs1,100 at certain booths. The court questioned the National Highway Authority (NHA) on its authority to unilaterally increase the toll fees without prior approval.
Legal counsel representing the NHA informed the court of a related case already pending before another judicial bench and mentioned that toll rates had remained unchanged for four years prior to the hike. He assured full cooperation by submitting a written response to be uploaded online, as directed by the court.
M-Tag System Under Judicial Scrutiny
The introduction of the M-Tag, an electronic toll collection mechanism, has also faced judicial pushback. The NHA’s counsel noted that a stay has been granted on the compulsory installation of M-Tags in the other case presided over by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir. Following this order, motorists have reportedly stopped installing the tags.
Chief Justice Dogar ordered that all related petitions, including those involving the M-Tag, be consolidated and heard together for efficient adjudication.
Implications for Pakistani Motorists
The court’s decision to merge these cases highlights growing public concern over increased transportation costs and the mandatory digital toll system. For Pakistani drivers, particularly daily commuters on motorways, these changes translate into higher expenses and adjustments in travel procedures. The outcome of these consolidated hearings could influence toll policies nationwide and the future adoption of electronic tolling technologies.
The hearing has been deferred until next week, with expectations high for clarity on both toll pricing and the M-Tag enforcement.
