In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has once again ruled that the Delhi-Noida Direct (DND) flyway will remain toll-free. The verdict, announced on May 9, 2025, by a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh, dismissed the Noida Toll Bridge Company Ltd’s (NTBCL) plea to review the December 2024 ruling.
Project Costs Already Recovered
The court stated that NTBCL had already recovered the entire cost of the project along with considerable profits, rendering any further toll collection unjustified. The bench referenced a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report that clearly showed NTBCL had made significant profits and fully repaid all debts tied to the project.
Unfair Toll Arrangement Criticized
Criticism was also directed at the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) and other state bodies for allowing toll collection rights to be passed on to NTBCL in a manner that the court labeled as “unfair, unjust, and inconsistent with Constitutional norms.” This strongly worded observation highlighted the need for greater transparency and fairness in public-private partnerships.
NTBCL’s Arguments Rejected
While NTBCL claimed that parts of the CAG report supported its stance, the court remained firm. It acknowledged the company had “minted a lot of money” and found no merit in continuing toll operations. The only concession made by the court was a clarification of one paragraph involving remarks about a senior NTBCL official.
Next Steps For NTBCL
Despite this decisive ruling, NTBCL has indicated that it will consider additional legal options. However, for now, daily commuters can breathe easy as the DND flyway remains toll-free, reinforcing the Supreme Court’s position in favor of public interest and against exploitative toll practices.
