The Indian government has taken a landmark step in road development by announcing a fresh batch of toll-free highways under the Bharat Mala Yojana Phase 2. These newly declared expressways aim to strengthen inter-state connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and improve travel time across key trade routes. The plan, unveiled in May 2025, includes 6,200 kilometers of Indian road projects to be completed over the next three years.
What sets this phase apart is the introduction of select toll-free highways, particularly in rural and border areas, to boost regional trade and allow free movement of essential goods. Unlike Phase 1, where most expressways were tolled, this new phase provides economic relief to commuters and truck operators in key sectors.
States Benefiting From Toll-Free Highways in 2025
Here are the major routes and states that will gain new toll-free highways under Bharat Mala Yojana Phase 2:
| State | Route Name | Toll-Free Length (KM) |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Lucknow–Gorakhpur Expressway | 275 |
| Gujarat | Rajkot–Bhuj Corridor | 180 |
| Bihar | Patna Outer Ring Connectivity | 120 |
| Rajasthan | Bikaner–Jodhpur Economic Link | 210 |
| Assam | Tezpur–Itanagar Logistics Route | 145 |
These routes are expected to reduce long-haul travel time by 30% and will operate without toll booths for private and commercial vehicles during the first five years of operation.
Features of the New Bharat Mala Highways
The Indian road projects under this expansion include several modern infrastructure enhancements:
-
Access-controlled four-lane design for faster commutes
-
Greenfield expressways connecting underdeveloped districts
-
Dedicated freight lanes to support logistic hubs
-
Solar-powered lighting and emergency helplines
-
Eco-sensitive route alignments in border and hilly zones
The initiative reflects the government’s focus on balanced growth and reducing the cost of transport in India’s supply chain sector.
Economic and Social Impact of the Expansion
The toll-free access under Bharat Mala Yojana Phase 2 is expected to deliver the following benefits:
-
Increased rural market access for farmers and small businesses
-
Improved national security logistics in border states
-
Reduced delivery timelines for FMCG and e-commerce sectors
-
Direct employment generation through highway construction and maintenance
-
Boost in tourism due to better connectivity to heritage and nature sites
This wave of highway updates ensures inclusivity in infrastructure development and provides support to districts not covered in earlier plans.
FAQs
What is the Bharat Mala Yojana Phase 2?
It’s the second phase of a government highway development program focusing on toll-free routes and improved rural and border connectivity.
Which states are getting toll-free highways?
States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Assam will benefit from toll-free highways in 2025.
Will these highways remain toll-free forever?
They will be toll-free for the first five years, after which the toll model will be reviewed based on usage and economic impact.
How will this impact Indian logistics?
The new Indian road projects will cut travel time, reduce logistics costs, and improve the efficiency of long-haul transport.
Are these routes part of existing highways?
Most are newly constructed expressways under the Bharat Mala Yojana, with access-controlled designs and freight corridors.
Click here to know more.