The Karnataka government is considering removing toll charges for two-wheelers on the NICE Road, a key peripheral expressway in Bengaluru that helps ease traffic congestion and connects major highways across the city. The announcement comes as authorities prepare to open a new 1.5-km connecting road linking Mysuru Road’s Deepanjali Nagar junction to the NICE corridor near PES College in Hosakerehalli.
State minister Satish Jarkiholi shared this information during the Question Hour in the Karnataka Legislative Council, indicating that the government is examining the possibility of scrapping toll fees for two-wheelers using the NICE Road.
Issue Raised in Legislative Council
Congress MLC Ramoji Gowda raised concerns regarding compensation for farmers who had provided land for the NICE Road project. He alleged that many farmers are still awaiting proper compensation even though the agreement period between the government and the private developer is nearing completion.
Gowda also highlighted problems such as increasing traffic congestion, accidents, and poor road maintenance on the corridor. He asked the government whether the toll rates had been increased with official approval and if there were plans to bring the road under direct government control.
Sub-Committee to Review Agreement
Responding to the concerns, Jarkiholi said that a cabinet sub-committee chaired by the Home Minister will examine multiple aspects of the project. The review will include the agreement terms between the state government and Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises (NICE), toll collection practices, and the overall status of the road project.
The committee will also study issues related to traffic management, compensation for landowners, and maintenance of the expressway before submitting its report.
Decision After Committee Report
According to the minister, the government will take a final decision on abolishing toll for two-wheelers only after the sub-committee submits its findings. The proposal is expected to benefit thousands of daily commuters in Bengaluru who rely on the expressway for faster travel across the city.
If implemented, the move could significantly reduce commuting costs for two-wheeler riders and improve accessibility to the NICE corridor, which serves as one of the city’s major traffic-relief routes.
