Beira Interior campaigners are asking the Government and the Autoridade da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (AMT) to clarify whether proposals for financing Portugal’s roads could affect the A23, A24 and A25. The call follows a meeting in Covilhã on 14 October, according to Notícias da Covilhã.
For drivers, the immediate position remains unchanged. The current consolidated version of Law 37/2024 maintains the abolition of tolls on these motorways. The sources reviewed contain no approved decision or timetable for bringing charges back. Jornal Notícias da Covilhã
What prompted the warning
AMT presented its study, Financiamento da Rede Rodoviária, on 29 September. The authority says it examines future funding options as road maintenance needs, technological change and the approaching expiry of concession contracts put pressure on the existing system.
Independent reporting by ECO explains that the study recommends a mixed funding model, combining payments linked to road use, fiscal and environmental measures, and public funding. Options include charging by distance travelled, particularly for heavy and commercial vehicles.
ECO also reports that the study recognises a role for public funding where wider objectives, including territorial cohesion and universal accessibility, cannot be fully financed by users. These are recommendations about future policy, rather than an announcement of new toll rates. amt-autoridade.pt
What the platform wants
The Plataforma P’la Reposição das SCUT na A23 e A25 wants explicit assurances that the study will not lead to renewed charges on the three motorways.
According to Notícias da Covilhã, it plans to request meetings with the Government, AMT and parliamentary groups. It is also asking local authorities to adopt motions opposing any return of tolls.
The distinction for residents is therefore between a live debate over future road funding and the rules currently applying to their journeys. The warning alone introduces no new payment requirement. Jornal Notícias da Covilhã