India legal Bureau
In a move to empower differently-abled persons, the National Highways Authority of India in a recent circular has added mechanical vehicles, especially designed and manufactured for people suffering from physical defects or disabilities to its list of vehicles that are exempt from “user fees” on highways.
Rule 11 of the National Highways Fees (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008 lists the category of vehicles exempt from payment of fees (formerly known as toll) on highways.
Among the vehicles exempted from the fee are those carrying or accompanying the President of India and other important government functionaries, including the Chief Justice of India.
Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Vir Chakra and Shaurya Chakra awardees are also included in the list as well as ambulances, vehicles from the fire department, etc.