The National Highway Authority (NHA) has clarified that electric buses operated by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) are not exempt from toll tax under the existing policy, the National Assembly was informed.

According to a written response by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, CDA’s electric buses can operate on designated routes, including the N-5 corridor from 26 No. Chungi to Taxila, but are still required to pay toll charges like other vehicles.

The minister explained that toll exemptions are currently limited to specific categories such as armed forces vehicles, ambulances, fire brigades, police, and certain government-owned vehicles.

The matter was also taken up in a meeting between NHA and CDA officials held on January 28, 2026, during which the CDA requested toll relief under the New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025–2030. The authority noted that around 160 electric buses are currently operating on inter-city routes and urged exemption at key toll plazas.

However, the NHA maintained that existing toll contracts for the 2025–26 fiscal year were awarded through competitive bidding and do not include provisions for electric vehicle exemptions, as the EV policy was introduced after these agreements were finalized.

The minister added that both authorities are exploring interim solutions to support operations, while no immediate toll exemption has been granted.