Calculations have revealed that the rates have increased significantly from last year, despite the percentage adjustment appearing to be ‘lower’ than this year.
The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has updated the tariff prices that are set to change on the 1st March 2026.
The annual tariffs are set to increase by 3.12% this year, which is “less than last year’s 4.85% adjustment”, according to the agency.
But the amount will still hit motorists’ pockets
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Travelling to Limpopo
In March 2025, it cost around R226 to pass through the tollgates on the way to Polokwane. These include passing through Pumlani, Carousel, Kranskop, and Nyl toll gates.
As of 1 March 2026, it will cost R232.50 to travel to Polokwane with a light motor vehicle (class 1).
Travelling to Durban
If you are travelling from Joburg to Durban via De Hoek, Wilge, Tugela, Mooi River, and Mariannhill tollgates in March 2025, it cost R334.
After the increases come into effect this year, it will cost R347.50.
Increase ‘necessary’
Comparing last year’s tariffs from Joburg to Durban, it will cost a light motor vehicle R13.50, more than this year. And from Joburg to Polokwane, R6.50 more.
According to the Sanral communications manager, Vusi Mona, “toll revenue is necessary to maintain, operate, and improve toll roads, as well as to service debt incurred to implement a toll road project.”
Mona said that the funds “go a long way towards ensuring that SANRAL fulfils its mandate of delivering quality road infrastructure that adds value to the lives of South African citizens.”
Comparing last year’s tariffs from Joburg to Durban, it will cost a class 1, light motor vehicle R13.50, more than this year. And from Joburg to Polokwane R6.50, more than the tariffs in March 2025 reports.
Mona said that SANRAL is empathetic to the South African public, considering the current state of the economy.
“However, it is equally important to introduce the adjustments to ensure that the agency continues to deliver safe and quality roads to the benefit of all road users”
Why do we have tolls?
Arrive Alive reports that toll roads are important for the growth of the country and assist us in meeting the demands of social services by aiding construction, compared to traditional tax-based funding.
According to Arrive Alive, the state of the road does not depend on toll gate taxes but is for the initial and future improvements, which include operations and maintenance.
Money received from taxpayers is used for other roads, including city streets.
Environmental influences such as the weather, ultraviolet radiation, and overloading cause roads to worsen over time.
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