The company managing Croatian highways (HAC) announced that this summer the seasonal tariff will be reintroduced, resulting in 10 percent higher tolls between July 1 and September 30. However, this decision does not apply to heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks.
The introduction of seasonal tolls is not new; they were first implemented in 2017. However, over the past four years, these fees were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic and the economic crisis, as part of the government's package of measures aimed at supporting citizens and the economy. According to HAC's statement, the introduction of seasonal tolls is necessary for certain vehicle categories, as about 40 percent of annual traffic takes place during the summer months.
As a result, during this period, the costs of maintenance, security, supervision, and traffic management increase significantly. Motorists can still avail of discounts if they have an electronic ENC device. This device offers a 21 percent discount during the summer season and 33 percent off-season. ENC devices can be purchased at offices next to toll booths for 15 euros and can be recharged with cash.
Any amount can be loaded onto them, which can be used even in the following year. Using the ENC device avoids queuing at the cash toll booths, as one can pass through the ENC-labeled gates within minutes. The device simply needs to be held near the windshield, and upon reaching the barrier, the device beeps, and the gate opens. The exit from the highway is registered by the device, which deducts the appropriate amount from the device, further indicating how much money is left on it.
