No Toll for Bikes on NICE Road? Karnataka Govt Examines Two-Wheeler Exemption Proposal

The Karnataka government is reviewing toll charges on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor, commonly known as NICE Road, with Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi indicating that a possible exemption for two-wheelers is under consideration. The issue came up in the Legislative Council after members raised concerns over high toll rates and several unresolved matters related to the long-running project.

During Question Hour, Congress member Ramoji Gowda highlighted complaints linked to the agreement between the state government and Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises Limited (NICEEL), the company responsible for developing and operating the corridor. He said farmers who had provided land for the project were still waiting for compensation even though the concession period granted to the company is nearing its end.

Concerns Over Toll Charges and Project Commitments

Ramoji Gowda criticised the toll structure on NICE Road, particularly the collection of toll from two-wheelers. He argued that such charges are not imposed on bikes on most state and national highways across India.

According to Gowda, toll fees on the corridor remain high despite several commitments under the original project agreement still pending. He said the company has not yet built the township that was promised as part of the development plan.

He also urged authorities to increase staffing at toll plazas during weekends, when traffic volumes rise significantly. Gowda further suggested that the government should not extend the township development timeline granted to NICEEL.

Government Reviewing Toll Policy

Responding to the concerns, Satish Jarkiholi explained that the toll structure is currently being examined through a government-appointed sub-committee. The panel was formed following a Cabinet decision last year to assess multiple aspects of the project and determine whether revisions are required.

Consultants appointed through a tender process are now reviewing the company's financial and operational details. The study includes examining the total investment made by NICEEL in constructing the road, the extent of land used for the project, and the toll revenue collected since 2008.

The minister said the government would take a policy decision only after the final report is submitted. Based on the findings, the state may consider cancelling toll charges for two-wheelers on NICE Road.

Farmers' Compensation Still a Key Issue

Apart from toll charges, the matter of compensation for farmers who gave land for the project remains a major concern raised by legislators. Gowda stated that several landowners have not yet received compensation despite the project operating for years.

The township development promised under the agreement also remains incomplete, prompting further criticism from lawmakers who say the company must fulfil its obligations before any extensions are granted.

AI Cameras Planned for Road Safety

Alongside the toll review, the government is also looking at improving safety along stretches of the corridor. Jarkiholi said accidents on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor were discussed during a meeting of the Bengaluru Urban District Road Safety Committee.

To help monitor speeding and reduce accidents, the state plans to install AI-based traffic cameras on NICE Road. These systems will function in a similar way to those already deployed on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway.

For now, commuters and stakeholders are awaiting the committee's final report, which will guide the government's decision on toll policy, including the possible removal of charges for two-wheelers.