New Regulations and Increased Costs Impacting Rajasthan Residents from April 1, 2026
Financial Burden on Residents as New Fiscal Year Begins
Higher Travel Costs – Toll Rates Increase by ₹5 to ₹20
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a hike in toll rates at over 170 toll plazas across the state, effective April 1. The following routes connecting Jaipur will see these increases:
- Jaipur-Delhi Old Highway: Daulatpura, Manoharpur, Shahjahanpur toll plazas
- Jaipur-Kishangarh Highway: Thikaria, Badgaon tolls
- Jaipur Ring Road: Sitarampura, Hingonia tolls
- Jaipur-Sikar Highway: Tatiyawas toll
- Jaipur-Dausa and other major routes
New Rates:
- No increase for light vehicles (cars, jeeps) at most locations.
- Heavy vehicles (trucks, buses) will incur an additional toll of ₹5 to ₹20.
- FASTag Annual Pass: Increased from ₹3000 to ₹3075.
NHAI has made digital payments mandatory, tightening regulations on cash transactions.
Changes to OPD Hours in Government Hospitals
The Health Department has revised OPD hours to accommodate patients during the summer:
New OPD Hours (April 1 to September 30, 2026):
- 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (All government hospitals, including SMS Jaipur)
- Sundays and public holidays: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Emergency services will remain available 24/7.
Previous Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
This change will apply to all district hospitals, satellite hospitals, CHCs, and PHCs across the state.
Additional Key Changes Effective April 1:
- New Academic Session: All government and private schools in the state will commence a new academic year.
- Railway Regulations: Modifications to the timetable and rules for certain trains; passengers are advised to stay alert.
- Anganwadi Centers: Possible changes in timings.
- Ranthambore and other wildlife parks will see alterations in visitor regulations.
Impact on the General Public
- Increased expenses for daily commuters traveling between Jaipur-Delhi, Jaipur-Ajmer, and Jaipur-Sikar.
- Patients will need to arrive earlier at government hospitals.
- Transport companies may face higher costs, leading to increased freight charges.
Government's Stance: NHAI stated that toll increases are adjusted annually based on inflation. The change in hospital hours aims to protect patients from the harsh midday sun during summer.
Advice:
- Check FASTag balance before traveling.
- Patients should arrive at hospitals by 8 AM.
- Use the NTES app or IRCTC to check train statuses.