Government Plans Major FASTag Update: No More Frequent Recharges!
The Government of India plans to introduce a new FASTag rule to simplify toll payments for private vehicle owners. This major change aims to reduce long queues at toll plazas and remove the hassle of frequent FASTag recharges. The government is also exploring the possibility of offering toll passes for private vehicles, offering great convenience to regular commuters. Let’s dive into the details of this upcoming rule and the expected costs of the toll passes.
What is the New FASTag Rule?
The Indian government is working on a plan to introduce a toll pass system for private vehicles, which will allow users to make a one-time payment for toll usage. With this new system, vehicle owners will be able to choose from monthly, annual, or even lifetime toll passes. The goal is to lower toll fees and make toll plaza crossings faster and hassle-free. This change will also put an end to the need for constant recharging of FASTag accounts, making the entire process more convenient for drivers.
In addition, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is implementing a new FASTag validation rule, effective from February 17, 2025. This will restrict last-minute recharges for blacklisted accounts. If a FASTag remains blacklisted for over 60 minutes before reaching a toll plaza, the transaction will be declined with an error code 176.
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How Much Will the Toll Pass Cost?
The government’s new toll pass system aims to simplify the toll collection process while reducing vehicle congestion at toll booths. Under this scheme, vehicle owners can pay ₹3,000 for an annual toll pass. They can also opt for a lifetime pass by paying ₹30,000, which covers 15 years—the average vehicle lifespan.
The system will integrate these toll passes directly into existing FASTag accounts. Users won’t need to submit extra documents or install new devices.. The change promises not only a smoother travel experience but also cost-effective toll payments for private vehicle owners.
Nitin Gadkari’s Statement on Toll Passes
In January 2025, India’s Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed that the government is considering the introduction of both monthly and annual toll passes for private vehicles. According to reports, private vehicles accounted for 53% of toll transactions in the financial year 2023-24. If the toll pass rule is implemented, FASTag users will benefit from unlimited access to toll passes, allowing them to drive uninterrupted through toll booths on national highways and expressways.
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