Toll Collection to Begin on Karnataka Stretch of Chennai Expressway
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to start toll collection on the 70-km Karnataka stretch of the Bengaluru-Chennai expressway, ending the free rides that motorists have enjoyed since the expressway opened unofficially in February.
This stretch, which connects Hoskote to Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), sees around 2,000 to 2,500 vehicles daily. According to NHAI, toll rates are being finalized, with cars likely to pay Rs 150 for a one-way trip and Rs 225 for a round trip. Heavier vehicles may be charged up to Rs 520 (one-way) and Rs 780 (round trip).
The 261-km greenfield expressway spans Karnataka (76 km), Andhra Pradesh (91 km), and Tamil Nadu (94 km). While the Karnataka section is ready, the other stretches are still under construction.
Connectivity improvements like the Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR) at Hoskote and a new STRR-Hoskote link road are expected by August, easing congestion on Old Madras Road.
Two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, and tractors are banned on the expressway, though illegal biker entry remains a safety issue. Officials confirm that public tolling will start once formal notifications are issued.
