In the financial year 2023-24, the Devanahalli toll plaza near Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru generated impressive revenue. The toll plaza earned ₹308 crore, making it the highest-earning toll plaza in Karnataka. This year’s revenue adds to a total of ₹1,577 crore accumulated over the past decade.

Strategic Location

The Devanahalli toll plaza sits on National Highway 44 (NH 44), which links Bengaluru to KIA, India’s third-busiest airport. The strategic placement has greatly aided its financial success. KIA has seen a surge in traffic, processing a record 37.53 million passengers and over 439,000 metric tonnes of cargo in the year 2023-24.

NH 44 is more than just a route to the airport. It is essential for commercial vehicles traveling to and from Karnataka and neighboring states. This continuous flow of vehicles contributes to the toll plaza’s strong earnings. The combination of high passenger traffic and commercial activity amplifies the toll revenue.

Controversy Over Toll Charges

Despite the impressive earnings, the high toll charges have sparked significant controversy. Notable figures, including Mohandas Pai, the former CFO of Infosys, have raised questions about the fairness of these charges. Pai has specifically criticized the toll collection on the road leading to KIA. He points out that no other airport in India has a toll road before reaching its terminals.

On social media platform X, Pai expressed his concerns. He labeled the toll charges as discriminatory against Bengaluru. He emphasized that tolls should be collected on roads after the airport, such as Bellary Road. His criticism focuses on the excessive nature of the toll fees. Pai believes that these charges should be abolished entirely, arguing that they are unfair and unnecessary.

Government Response

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed the revenue figures from the toll plaza. He acknowledged that the plaza plays a role in enhancing Karnataka’s infrastructure. However, Gadkari did not directly address the concerns raised by Pai regarding the fairness of the tolls.

The dialogue surrounding the toll charges has opened up a broader discussion. There is ongoing debate about the need for tolls in specific areas, especially those linked to critical infrastructures, such as airports. As traffic to KIA continues to grow, the focus on toll revenue may become more pronounced.

Public Reaction

The questions raised by Pai have resonated with many who use the Devanahalli toll plaza. Commuters and travelers have shared their feelings about the toll charges. Some agree with Pai, believing that the tolls are too high and should be reconsidered. Others recognize the need for funding infrastructure but question why passengers must pay before reaching the airport.

Many passengers also point out that other airports do not charge tolls before arrival. This comparison adds weight to the arguments for a reevaluation of the toll structure at Devanahalli. Social media discussions have further amplified these concerns, with users sharing personal anecdotes and experiences related to toll charges.

Economic Impact

The revenue generated by the Devanahalli toll plaza not only supports the maintenance of roads but also contributes to the broader economic landscape of the region. It funds infrastructure projects that benefit the public. The earnings have implications for future upgrades to highways and public transport systems.

However, a balance must be struck between revenue generation and affordability for commuters. Excessive tolls may deter travelers from using the route, impacting overall traffic volume and, consequently, revenue in the long run. Striking this balance is crucial for sustainable growth.

Future Considerations

As the debate continues, the future of toll charges at the Devanahalli plaza remains uncertain. Government authorities may need to evaluate the necessity and structure of these tolls. There could be a push for changes to ensure that tolls align more closely with those at other airports across the country.

Furthermore, increased transparency in how toll revenues are utilized may help ease public concerns. By sharing detailed reports on the impact of tolls on infrastructure development, authorities can build public trust and offer clearer justifications for their tolling practices.