The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a notification making digital payment the standard method for toll collection across national highways and expressways. The new rules will come into effect from April 10, 2026. Under the revised framework, cash transactions at toll plazas will no longer be accepted. The move is part of changes made to the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008.
Higher charges for vehicles without FASTag
Vehicles entering toll plazas without a valid FASTag will still be allowed to pass. However, such users must pay 1.25 times the applicable toll fee through UPI. The rule applies to all vehicle categories and is intended to ensure compliance with electronic toll collection.
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Action for non-payment
If a vehicle owner or driver does not make payment through the prescribed digital method, action can be taken under Rule 14 of the existing rules.
This includes:
- Denial of entry at toll plazas
- Removal of the vehicle from the highway
Authorities may also issue an electronic notice for unpaid toll amounts. Failure to clear dues within a specified period can lead to additional charges.
Annual passes and exempted FASTags
The ministry has advised eligible users and government departments to use FASTag-based systems, including exempted FASTags and annual passes. The annual pass for private vehicles is priced at ₹3,075 and allows up to 200 toll crossings. Officials have clarified that toll exemptions apply to specific offices or authorities, not individuals. Misuse of identity cards at toll plazas has been reported in the past.
Elctrik Speaks
The shift to digital toll collection formalises an already growing reliance on FASTag and UPI-based payments. The revised rules also introduce a structured penalty system for non-compliance, indicating stricter enforcement at toll plazas going forward.
