Dhirendra Singh, the MLA for Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, has formally requested the state government to defer a proposed 3.5% increase in toll rates on the Yamuna Expressway. This proposal comes from the Surkasha group, the concessionaire for the 165-km expressway, citing rising operational costs as the reason for the hike. Singh argues that with current inflation affecting fuel and essential commodity prices, increasing toll rates would place an additional financial burden on commuters, businesses, and small traders who rely on this vital route. The expressway, which connects Greater Noida to Agra, sees over 50,000 vehicles daily and is expected to experience increased traffic due to the upcoming Noida International Airport. Singh believes that any toll increase would not align with public sentiment, especially given the economic challenges faced by daily commuters and commercial vehicle operators. Concerns have been raised by frequent users who are already grappling with rising travel expenses, indicating that even a small toll hike could significantly impact their budgets.