In a move aimed at improving transportation accessibility and ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, certain sections of Poland’s state-owned highways will no longer have toll charges for personal vehicle drivers. The decision was announced by the State Secretary for Regional Development, Marcin Horala, signaling the government’s commitment to enhancing travel convenience for citizens.

Eliminating Toll Charges:

Poland boasts an extensive highway network spanning 1,712 kilometers, with the state owning 1,244 kilometers, including 241 kilometers subject to toll charges. The remaining 468 kilometers are owned or leased by private entrepreneurs, with 451 kilometers currently subject to tolls. The government’s decision will make tolls on state-owned sections free for personal cars, while discussions will continue with private operators to negotiate fee abolition and potential reimbursements.

Negotiations and Expropriation:

Minister of Development and Technology, Waldemar Buda, stated that the government intends to negotiate with private operators to find mutually beneficial resolutions. However, if the operators’ financial demands are deemed unreasonable or they oppose toll abolition, the government holds the authority to expropriate their assets in the public interest, with compensation determined by the courts.

Sections Becoming Toll-Free:

As of summer, specific sections, such as the A4 highway between Wrocław and Gliwice and the A2 highway between Konin and Stryków, will become toll-free for personal vehicle drivers. Currently, toll payments are required through a toll system or mobile application on these highways. The removal of toll charges will enable unrestricted access, facilitating more convenient and cost-effective travel across Poland.

Contrasting Approach with Neighboring Countries:

The decision to make Polish highways toll-free for personal vehicles stands in stark contrast to recent developments in neighboring countries. In the Czech Republic, under the leadership of Prime Minister Petr Fiala, the government has chosen to increase highway tolls, with the annual highway vignette set to rise by 800 CZK to a total of 2,300 CZK from March next year. This divergence in approach means that Polish drivers can enjoy the cost-saving advantage of toll-free highways, while their counterparts in the Czech Republic face higher transportation expenses.

Conclusion:

The Polish government’s decision to eliminate toll charges on state-owned highways for personal vehicles demonstrates its commitment to improving transportation accessibility. While negotiations with private operators regarding toll abolition and reimbursements continue, specific sections of the highway network will soon be toll-free. This move sets Poland apart from neighboring countries, such as the Czech Republic, where tolls are increasing. Polish drivers can now look forward to more convenient and cost-effective travel experiences on the country’s highways.

Article by Prague Forum