Meemansa Achary
Monday, 26 January 2026
In a decisive move to combat widespread toll evasion, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has revised the regulations governing toll collection. These amendments, effective February 21, 2026, introduce strict measures that prevent the sale of vehicles with unpaid toll dues, significantly impacting vehicle owners and the transport industry.
Under the new rules, vehicles with outstanding toll fees cannot be sold, effectively tying vehicle ownership transfers to toll compliance. This legislative change is part of a broader initiative to implement barrier-free tolling systems nationwide, aimed at streamlining toll collection and reducing congestion at toll plazas.
Key provisions include Section 3A, which details penalties for non-compliance and the registration process for toll dues. Vehicles with unpaid dues will not only face sales restrictions but may also incur additional penalties under Section 5B of the amended rules.
Previously, the toll collection system lacked robust enforcement, allowing many vehicle owners to evade payment. The new rules aim to close this gap, enhancing the financial viability of toll projects and ensuring revenues support infrastructure development.
Critics express concerns about the potential burden on vehicle owners, particularly those facing financial difficulties. The amendments could disproportionately affect low-income individuals who rely on vehicles for their livelihoods. Legal experts are also examining constitutional validity issues, particularly concerning the right to property under Article 300A of the Indian Constitution.
As the Ministry implements these regulations, stakeholders including vehicle owners, transport associations, and legal practitioners must prepare for compliance and possible legal challenges. The coming months will be crucial in assessing the effectiveness of these measures and their public reception.
What You Need to Know
Ministry of Road Transport mandates vehicles with unpaid tolls cannot be sold starting February 21, 2026, per revised regulations.
Vehicle owners, transport industry, and toll operators are directly affected by the sales restrictions and compliance requirements.
Sets precedent linking vehicle sales to toll compliance, enhancing enforcement and financial viability of toll projects nationwide.
Advise clients to clear outstanding toll dues before vehicle sales; assess potential Article 300A challenges.
Amendments to toll rules link vehicle sales to toll compliance, impacting owners and transport sector.
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