Carmel Tunnels Tolls Rise Above NIS 12 for First Time

Drivers using the Carmel Tunnels in Haifa are now facing increased tolls, with the price for a single segment in a private vehicle rising from NIS 11.97 to NIS 12.08. This marks the first time since the tunnels opened in 2010 that the toll has surpassed NIS 12. A round trip covering both segments will now cost NIS 48.32. The price hike affects all vehicle types, with tolls for public transport increasing from NIS 35.91 to NIS 36.24 per segment, and for trucks from NIS 59.85 to NIS 60.40 per segment.

The toll adjustments are implemented according to the concession agreement between the state and the Carmelton company, tied to the consumer price index. The increase has sparked anger among regular tunnel users, with some calling for protests against the rising costs. Haifa City Council member Zvika Barbi has urged Mayor Yona Yahav to take action against Carmelton, requesting a review of existing agreements, a meeting with the company's management, and an examination of pricing mechanisms, collection data, and profitability.

Carmelton stated that the toll rates are determined and updated based on the consumer price index and the agreement with the state. The company highlighted that the tunnels serve as a vital transportation artery in the Haifa metropolitan area, saving drivers time and fuel compared to alternative routes. The current adjustment adds 11 agorot per segment for private cars, amounting to a 44 agorot increase for a round trip. Over the past year, private vehicle tolls have risen by approximately 1.5%, or 18 agorot per segment. While tolls have increased significantly since the tunnels opened in 2010, Carmelton noted that negative inflation indices in previous quarters had led to toll decreases.