The implementation of dual tolling on highways recently merged under administrative consolidation has sparked widespread controversy among commuters and transporters. In many cases, motorists are required to pay tolls twice within a short distance as previously separate highways with individual toll plazas have been combined without adequately adjusting toll collection points. This has led to frustration over perceived unfairness and increased travel costs, particularly affecting daily commuters and freight operators who regularly use these merged routes.

Critics argue that the continuation of multiple tolls on contiguous stretches undermines the purpose of highway integration, which was intended to streamline travel and reduce bottlenecks. They call on authorities, including the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and state transport departments, to rationalize toll collection by consolidating plazas or implementing cumulative toll caps to prevent duplicate charges. Public interest litigations and petitions have also been filed in some regions seeking judicial intervention to address the issue.

In response, officials acknowledge the challenges posed by legacy concession agreements and infrastructure constraints but assure that measures are being explored to minimize commuter inconvenience. Proposed solutions include renegotiating contracts, technological integration of toll data to avoid double billing, and phased removal or relocation of redundant toll booths. The controversy highlights the complexities of managing toll policies amid rapid highway network expansions and administrative changes, underscoring the need for more coordinated and commuter-friendly approaches.