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Tolls on one of the main highways will increase by 26%! The change is part of a billion-dollar plan to attract investors and improve infrastructure, but drivers fear the impact on their pockets. Will the benefits make up for the increase? Find out everything about this controversial decision!
In a move that promises to have a direct impact on drivers in Mato Grosso do Sul, the state government has announced a significant increase in toll rates on an important highway in the region.
The decision aims to make the concession of strategic road sections more attractive, essential for the flow of the state's agricultural and industrial production.
Adjustments to the notice to attract investors
After a failed attempt to privatize the 870 kilometers that make up the so-called Rota da Celulose, the government of Mato Grosso do Sul decided to review the concession notice.
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The main change was the 18,75% increase in the maximum toll amount per kilometer traveled, raising it from R$0,16 to R$0,19 on single-lane stretches.
On duplicated sections, the fare increased from R$0,22 to R$0,26 per kilometer.
With these changes, the toll cost on Rota da Celulose will be 26,5% higher than that of BR-163, which is also scheduled for auction in May of this year.
Planned investments and improvements on the Rota da Celulose highways
The Rota da Celulose concession project foresees investments of approximately R$10 billion over 30 years.
Among the planned improvements are the duplication of 115 kilometers of highways, the construction of 457 kilometers of shoulders, 245 kilometers of third lanes, 12 kilometers of marginal roads and 38 kilometers of bypasses in urban areas.
Furthermore, all highways included in the project will now have shoulders, a long-standing demand from users, especially on the MS-040, completed in 2014 without these escape lanes.
Technological innovations and benefits to users of the Pulp Route
One of the innovations foreseen in the new notice is the implementation of a fully electronic toll collection system, known as free-flow. This model will allow vehicles to pass through toll gates without having to stop, making traffic flow more smoothly.
Users who opt for the valid tag system (AVI) will receive a 5% discount on the fare, and there will be progressive discounts of up to 20% for passenger vehicles, depending on the frequency of use.
Motorcycles will be exempt from the charge.
Driver support infrastructure
To ensure better working conditions and safety for professional drivers, especially those transporting cargo and passengers, three Rest Stops (PPD) will be installed along the MS-040, BR-262 and BR-267 highways.
These stations will offer the necessary infrastructure for meals, personal hygiene and rest, aiming to reduce fatigue and prevent accidents on the roads.
Comparison with BR-163
While Rota da Celulose prepares for the auction with adjusted tariffs, BR-163 is also in the process of renewing its concession.
In accordance with the terms approved by the court Union accounts, the maximum value per kilometer on single-lane stretches will be R$0,15, double the value currently charged.
However, this new amount will be staggered and charged in full only after four years.
In the first year of the renegotiation, there is a forecast of a 33% increase on the current value, which is R$7,52 for every 100 kilometers.
Next steps and expectations
The Rota da Celulose auction is scheduled for May 8, 2025.
Although the contest is open to any interested company, the expectation is that CCR MSVia, which has operated BR-163 since 2014, will actively participate in the process.
The state government hopes that the changes to the notice will make the concession more attractive, guaranteeing the necessary investments to improve road infrastructure and, consequently, benefiting users with safer and more efficient roads.
Economic and social impact
A Cellulose Route It is essential for the flow of cellulose production and other agricultural products from Mato Grosso do Sul.
The planned improvements to the highways should facilitate the transportation of goods, reducing logistics costs and increasing the competitiveness of products from Mato Grosso do Sul in the national and international markets.
Furthermore, modernizing road infrastructure can attract new investment to the region, boosting economic development and generating jobs.
Challenges and final considerations
Despite positive expectations, the increase in toll rates may generate dissatisfaction among users, especially drivers of cargo vehicles who use the highways frequently.
It is essential that authorities and concessionaires ensure that the funds raised are effectively applied to the promised improvements, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the additional costs for users.
Transparency in the management of resources and clear communication with the population will be fundamental to the success of the concession and the acceptance of the new tariffs.
Do you believe that the increase in toll rates will be offset by the promised improvements to the highways? Leave your opinion in the comments!
