Beginning September 1, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will increase toll rates at 25 toll plazas in Tamil Nadu, raising the cost for a trip from Chennai to Bengaluru from ₹430 to ₹460, with additional hikes ranging from ₹5 to ₹150 depending on vehicle type. This annual revision comes amid growing public pressure to eliminate toll plazas, particularly in urban areas, as many roads remain in disrepair. Transportation activists have criticized the toll hike as an undue burden, highlighting ongoing issues such as incomplete road widening and poor infrastructure. The NHAI collected ₹4,221 crore from tolls in the previous financial year, with claims that current toll rates do not adequately cover maintenance costs. The increase could have a ripple effect on the price of essential goods and public transport fares, as traders and bus operators anticipate passing on these costs to consumers. The revision is consistent with the NHAI's policy of adjusting fees annually based on the wholesale price index.