M-Tag Policy Cuts Congestion, Speeds Up Motorway Travel
— March 6, 2025
ISLAMABAD (AIA) The National Highways Authority (NHA)’s recent push for M-Tag enforcement is already showing results, significantly easing traffic congestion on motorways across the country. Following the introduction of a 25% additional toll on vehicles without M-Tags, the adoption rate of the electronic toll system rose from 55% in January to 65% in February 2025, according to official data. The percentage of non-M-Tag vehicles dropped from 45% to 35% during the same period.
This shift is part of NHA’s strategy to transition to a fully digital toll collection system, aimed at streamlining travel and reducing bottlenecks at toll plazas, an NHA spokesperson said.
A senior NHA official highlighted the improvements: “We’re seeing clear progress in modernising the toll collection process, and it’s making a noticeable difference in traffic flow.”
To accelerate the shift, the Motorways Police began imposing an additional toll charge on non-M-Tag vehicles starting February 1, 2025, following a notification issued on January 31. Vehicles without an M-Tag, or with insufficient balances, now face a minimum extra charge of Rs 50, with the 25% penalty applied to the total toll amount.
M-Tags are prepaid stickers affixed to vehicles, allowing for cashless, fast-track transactions at toll plazas. The system enables motorists to avoid long queues and use dedicated lanes, offering a smoother travel experience.
The NHA has reiterated its commitment to fully implementing the M-Tag system, urging motorists to register to avoid additional charges and help create a more efficient, modern motorway network.