New Toll Tax Imposed on Tourists in Northern Areas: What You Need to Know

A new toll tax has been officially imposed on tourists traveling to the breathtaking northern areas of Pakistan through the famous Kaghan Valley. This decision, spearheaded by local authorities, is set to bring significant changes to how travelers experience the route connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).

Approved during a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Khalid Iqbal at the New Circuit House in Balakot, the move allows the National Highway Authority (NHA) to start toll collection from non-residents. While aimed at boosting infrastructure and road management, the decision has met both support and resistance.

Why Was the Toll Tax Introduced?

According to officials, the primary purpose of the new toll tax on tourists in northern areas is to fund road maintenance, safety infrastructure, and general upkeep of the increasingly congested tourist route. The federal government has already approved Rs. 4 billion to upgrade infrastructure in the area, with the toll collection expected to contribute to long-term sustainability.

DC Khalid Iqbal clarified that while the toll tax is applicable to visitors and tourists, residents of the Mansehra district will be exempt. This step, authorities believe, strikes a balance between economic growth and local convenience.

Hoteliers and Tourists Raise Concerns

Despite the development goals behind the tax, local business owners and tourism stakeholders are voicing concerns. Seth Matiullah, President of the Hoteliers Association in Naran, warned that the toll could discourage tourists, increase travel costs, and put further pressure on an already heavily taxed hospitality sector.

There are also worries that toll booths may cause traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist season, deterring families and adventure travelers from visiting the region.

Recent Protests Reflect Public Sentiment

Opposition to the toll isn’t just verbal—just last week, protestors dismantled a newly installed toll plaza near Naran, throwing its parts into the Kunhar River. This act of defiance underscores the growing tension between infrastructure plans and public sentiment.

Law Enforcement and Order

To ensure a peaceful transition, District Police Officer Shafiullah Khan Gandapur has emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order. Authorities are actively working with political representatives, tourism associations, and local communities to avoid further conflict and reach mutual understanding.

What This Means for Future Travel

The new toll tax on tourists in Northern Areas highlights a broader debate: how can regions capitalize on tourism without alienating visitors or overburdening local businesses?

While it’s too early to gauge the full impact, it’s clear that travel to Kaghan Valley and beyond may now come with added costs. Tourists are encouraged to plan ahead, stay updated on official announcements, and understand which fees apply before embarking on their journey.

The picturesque beauty of Pakistan’s north remains unmatched—but now, it comes with a price tag. Whether this move enhances or hinders the tourist experience remains to be seen.