Bengaluru: Travellers using the newly constructed Karnataka stretch of the Bengaluru–Chennai Expressway will soon be required to pay toll charges. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has finalised toll rates for the 71-kilometre section connecting Hedigenabele near Hoskote to Sundarapalya near KGF (Bethamangala). Though this road has been unofficially open for over seven months, toll collection will now begin following system integration and coordination with district authorities. For car and jeep users, the one-way toll from Hedigenabele to Sundarapalya is set at ₹185, while the return journey will cost ₹275. In the opposite direction — from Sundarapalya to Hedigenabele — the charges are slightly higher at ₹190 for a single trip and ₹280 for a round trip, as per a report by TOI. Toll rates will vary depending on vehicle type. Light commercial vehicles, light goods vehicles, and minibuses will pay ₹295 for a single trip and ₹445 for a round trip from Hedigenabele to Sundarapalya. The return direction will cost ₹305 and ₹455, respectively. Heavier vehicles such as trucks and buses will face higher tolls. From Hedigenabele to Sundarapalya, the one-way fee is ₹620 and ₹930 for a round trip. Travelling in the reverse direction will cost ₹635 for a single journey and ₹955 for a round trip. Monthly passes for private cars will cost ₹6,105 for 50 trips in one direction and ₹6,260 in the reverse. The expressway, which offers a smooth drive and speed limits of up to 120 kmph, has become a preferred route for many commuters. However, the new tolls may reduce usage. A senior NHAI official acknowledged that while tolling may impact traffic initially, the expressway still offers value for those travelling between eastern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Authorities have also raised concerns about two-wheelers entering the expressway despite being banned. Gaps in the boundary walls have allowed bikes to slip through, leading to several accidents. NHAI has now requested permission to deploy home guards at toll plazas and vulnerable spots to prevent unauthorised access until the fencing is completed. In a bid to enhance last-mile connectivity, the NHAI has released funds to upgrade surrounding village and district roads, particularly those linking Sundarapalya to the Bengaluru–Kolar Expressway via Mulbagal. Meanwhile, regular commuters continue to complain about traffic snarls near KR Pura and Hoskote. Despite saving time on the expressway, many find themselves delayed by 30–40 minutes at these congested points, undermining the benefits of a faster route to KGF. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Bengaluru and around the world.