No Cash for Toll Fees: New Rules Effective from April 10
India's new toll payment rules, effective from April 10, eliminate cash payments at national highways and expressways. Drivers must use FASTags or face additional charges for UPI payments. This move aims to reduce queues and enhance efficiency in travel.
Highlights
- •Toll-free Cash Payments are banned starting April 10
- •FASTag Compulsory: No entry without a valid FASTag
- •No Identity Exemptions: Only eligible positions can get exemptions now
- •NHAI Plans Multilane Free-Flow Toll System
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced a new toll payment system that will eliminate cash transactions at national highways and expressways in India, effective from April 10. The primary aim is to reduce long queues at toll plazas, making travel smoother for commuters. This move follows the growing recognition that cash payments cause significant delays.
FASTag Usage: Starting April 10, all vehicles will need a valid FASTag to access highways and expressways. Those without a FASTag can opt for digital payment via UPI; however, they will incur an additional charge of 1.25 times the standard toll fee. For non-compliance, drivers face strict penalties including towing the vehicle or prohibiting it from entering the highway.
Toll Collection Enhancements
Apart from FASTag and UPI options, the government has implemented measures to ensure prompt payment. An e-notice will be issued if a vehicle fails to settle payments as required, with penalties doubled for non-payment over three days.
Removing Exemptions: Toll exemptions are no longer based on individual status or identity cards but are reserved for specific positions and government roles. This means those who genuinely qualify must acquire an 'Exempted FASTag' or an annual pass priced at Rs 3,075 for up to 200 highway crossings per year.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is working on a multi-lane free-flow toll system. This technology will further enhance convenience by allowing vehicles to travel without stopping and automatically deducting toll fees from a FASTag.
