Haifa Tunnel Tolls Rise, Sparking Driver Anger and Calls for Protest

Residents of Haifa and surrounding areas are expressing outrage following a significant increase in tolls for the Carmel Tunnels, which took effect today. The price hike has been met with frustration from daily commuters who rely on the tunnels to shorten travel times between the Kirayot and southern Haifa.

Drivers described the increase as "extortion" and "crossing the line," with some calling for consumer action. "We need to block the entrance with trucks and protest, otherwise they will continue to rob us," said one resident, emphasizing the perceived injustice of the rising costs. Another commuter suggested that only a consumer revolt would help, but admitted that the public felt too weak to organize effectively.

The toll increase affects various vehicle types. The price for a segment in public transport now stands at NIS 36.24, up from NIS 35.91, and the toll for trucks will be NIS 60.40 per segment, compared to NIS 59.85. For private vehicles, the latest adjustment adds 11 agorot per segment, resulting in an additional 44 agorot for a round trip covering both segments.

Carmelton, the company operating the tunnels, is authorized to update the tolls according to its concession agreement with the state, with adjustments tied to the consumer price index. Despite the recent increase, Carmelton reported that the price per segment for private cars rose by 18 agorot over the past 12 months, approximately 1.5%. They also noted that tolls decreased in the second and third quarters due to a negative index.

The Carmel Tunnels, opened in 2010 with the aim of reducing travel times, have seen their tolls increase by tens of percent since their inception.