Businesses along Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway fear impact of proposed decentralized toll system, new entry/exit points

NHAI plans to set up toll collection points at various entry and exit points along the 119-km highway, replacing the existing system where vehicles pay fixed tolls at designated toll points. | Photo credit: K. MURALI KUMAR

Businesses located near the entry and exit points along the Bengaluru-Mysuru Access Controlled Highway fear for their future as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to introduce a decentralized toll system with multiple toll booths across the corridor and plans to close the existing entry/exit points on the stretch.

However, the move has raised concerns among businessmen who have invested heavily in hotels, restaurants, gas stations, commercial buildings, convenience stores, car service centers and other roadside businesses near the existing access points, expecting a steady flow of customers from the 10-lane highway.

Many fear that if entry and exit points are relocated, modified or closed under the new toll system, their businesses could suffer significant losses.

Anil Kumar, who set up a restaurant about 350 meters from the Nidaghatta entry-exit point two years ago, said the investment was made after assessing the site’s potential to attract travelers to the highway.

“I opened this restaurant because commuters using the expressway could conveniently exit here, have food and continue their journey. We have invested our savings with the belief that this access point will remain operational. Now we are hearing that some entry and exit points may be modified or closed under the new toll system. If this happens, our customer base will decrease drastically and we may face huge losses,” he said.

Worry

Similar concerns are expressed by property owners who have built commercial infrastructure near the highway.

Ganesh R., who has built a commercial building near Byrapatna village and leased space to several businesses, said the uncertainty over future access arrangements has already affected business activity in the area. “I invested millions of rupees in the construction of this property because the location was close to an entry and exit point. Several businesses took up space here and were expecting customers from the highway. Recently, the entry point was closed and only the exit is operational. Since then, many businesses are reporting a drop in customers.”

We are also concerned about what will happen if future toll zones are established outside the existing access points. According to him, businesses that have already invested based on the current road network could be seriously affected.

Another businessman Mahesh KN, who runs a petrol station and general store along the corridor, said NHAI should consult stakeholders before making major changes.

“We are not against development or a better toll system. But the authorities should work with local businesses and ensure that existing investments are protected. If access points need to be moved, suitable alternatives must be provided so that businesses are not isolated from road traffic,” he said.

Published – 11 Jun 2026 23:07 IST