Wednesday November 29, 2006
Expect 10 sen to RM1 rise in toll rates
KUALA LUMPUR: Industry analysts suggest motorists be prepared for an increase of between 10 sen and RM1 in toll charges on some major highways.
The analysts, who spoke on condition of anonymity, agreed that the increase was no surprise, having been stated on the concession agreements.
According to yesterday’s front-page report, toll charges will be increased next year on the Guthrie Corridor Expressway, Karak Highway, Grand Saga Cheras-Kajang Highway, Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong (LDP) and the Kesas Shah Alam Highway, as the Government cannot afford the estimated RM2bil compensation.
Should the Government completely stop compensating LDP operator Lingkaran Trans Kota Sdn Bhd (Litrak), motorists could expect a maximum toll charge increase of up to 110%, said an analyst from an investment bank.
This would mean cars would pay up to RM2.10, six-wheel vehicles RM4.20, and vehicles with three or more axles up to RM6.30.
However, this was unlikely, and the increase should be partial, with the Government likely to compensate for a lower toll increase by extending Litrak’s concession agreement.
He also expected the Kesas toll charges to be increased by 50 sen to 60 sen and the Karak Highway’s Gombak toll to increase by RM1, with the Bentong toll increasing by 50 sen.
Meanwhile, another analyst predicted a general increase of 10% to 15% on the five highways but felt motorists should not worry too much.
“It is normal to have an increase every three to four years as stipulated in the agreement,” said the analyst.
“Any increase will be fully considered by the Government to see if it is justifiable. It might not be a 15% increase; it might be lower, at 10%. The Government will decide the amount of increase.
“Concession agreements are usually for 25 to 30 years. I don’t think it is likely, but any agreement extension to offset a lower increase will probably be for 12 years to 15 years.”
When contacted, toll concessionaire representatives would not provide an estimate of the increase.
They said negotiations were currently under way with the Government.
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