Govt plans FASTag annual toll pass for unlimited highway travel: Check proposed fee, benefits, rollout date
The central government is reportedly working on a new toll collection system that may allow private vehicle owners to pay a single annual fee of ₹3,000 for unlimited travel on national highways. This proposal is part of the government's plan to improve highway travel, reduce costs, and simplify toll payments using digital technology.
What is the FASTag annual toll pass?
The proposed FASTag Annual Toll Pass is expected to replace the current system of toll payment per journey. Private vehicle owners who opt for this plan can travel across national highways and expressways without facing recurring deductions each time they cross a toll booth. The aim is to reduce congestion, promote digital payments, and ease the travel experience through a one-time payment system.
According to reports, the policy will also use GPS and automated tracking to support revenue collection and ensure compensation for toll operators.
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Two payment models under consideration
Annual toll pass
The key proposal involves a flat ₹3,000 annual payment that gives car owners unlimited access to national and state expressways. This model eliminates the need to reload FASTag accounts frequently or track individual toll deductions. It especially benefits people who travel frequently by road, including daily commuters and commercial vehicle operators.
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This plan also supports the government's larger push toward digital payments and simplified governance.
Distance-based pricing
For occasional highway users, the proposed system includes a second model: a distance-based toll of ₹50 per 100 kilometers. This option avoids asking such users to pay a flat annual fee that may not match their travel habits.
With this flexible system, drivers can pay according to their actual highway usage. The government plans to build a scalable tolling model that accommodates both frequent and occasional users.
Benefits of the proposed toll pass
No extra documentation
Users with existing FASTag accounts will not be required to submit fresh documents or update their accounts to switch to the new system.
Smooth transition
The new system aims to work with the current FASTag setup, ensuring a smooth experience for existing users and avoiding disruption during the change.
Cancellation of lifetime plan
The previously discussed plan for a ₹30,000 lifetime FASTag valid for 15 years has been dropped. The shift now is toward flexible and accessible tolling options.
Infrastructure compatibility
The system is expected to function with current FASTag infrastructure, which could make the rollout easier and faster.
Barrier-free toll booths planned
Another key element of the proposal is the removal of physical toll barriers. The government plans to phase out existing boom barriers and sensor systems in favor of a completely barrier-free setup.
Technologies such as automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), satellite tracking, or GPS may be used to allow vehicles to move through toll points without stopping. The goal is to reduce congestion, fuel waste, and delays caused by toll collection.
Implementation timeline unclear
As of now, there is no official announcement on when the
new toll system
will begin. While reports suggest planning is underway, final confirmation from the government is still pending.
The proposed toll system reflects a broader shift in India's transport policy, focusing on digital solutions and improving user convenience across the country's road network.
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