Free Petrol/Diesel: Is free fuel available at toll plazas? NHAI clarifies the situation
National Highway: The NHAI has clarified that claims regarding the provision of free petrol or diesel at toll plazas if a vehicle runs out of fuel on the national highway are incorrect; do not believe such rumors.
NHAI Toll Plaza: People often believe that if a vehicle runs out of petrol or diesel while traveling on a national highway, they can get free fuel at the nearest toll plaza. If you share this belief, it is crucial to know that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has clarified this matter through a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
🚧 Know Your National Highways | #MythvsFact
— NHAI (@NHAI_Official) June 4, 2026
Today’s myth addresses a common misconception that toll plazas provide free petrol or diesel to stranded highway users.
In reality, toll plazas do not provide free fuel. However, National Highway Patrol and emergency response teams… pic.twitter.com/IH6aHqZz7W
Is free petrol or diesel available at toll plazas?
According to the NHAI, free petrol or diesel is not provided to any vehicle driver at toll plazas. However, if your vehicle runs out of fuel and stalls midway, the team present at the toll plaza or on the national highway can assist you.
How to get help in an emergency?
In its post, the NHAI explained that teams on national highways can arrange for fuel delivery if needed or tow your vehicle to a safe location; however, you must bear the full cost of the petrol or diesel yourself.
Call this number for assistance.
If you find yourself in a difficult situation—such as a breakdown—on an NHAI-managed national highway, you can call the 24x7 National Highway Helpline number, 1033, for assistance. The major advantage of this helpline is that it provides support for various issues, including road accidents, vehicle breakdowns, and fuel requirements. Additionally, through the NHAI's fuel delivery service, 5 to 10 liters of petrol or diesel can be delivered to your specific location.
