FASTag Update: A major change is coming to the country’s toll system. The central government has set a target of making all toll plazas completely hi-tech by the end of 2026. Under this new system, barriers at toll booths will be eliminated and replaced with high-tech automatic number plate reader systems. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari told the Lok Sabha that after this change, vehicles will no longer need to stop at any toll plaza, completely alleviating highway traffic jams.
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High-tech toll technology
Previously, toll fees were collected from vehicles through cash, cards, or FASTags. FASTags reduced traffic congestion, but the government is now taking this a step further. The new technology will utilise both automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and FASTags. As a vehicle passes through the toll lane, cameras will scan the number plate, and the toll amount will be automatically deducted from the FASTag. The entire process will be completed in just a few seconds. Pilot testing of this system is underway at 10 locations across the country.
No need to stop vehicles
Nitin Gadkari stated that this system will be implemented nationwide within the next year. He stated that no vehicle will be stopped at toll plazas, as the fee will be collected directly electronically. Vehicles without a valid FASTag will be issued a penalty or e-notice.
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Relief for UPI Payers
Previously, drivers without a FASTag were charged double the normal toll. Under the new system, if such drivers pay through UPI, they will only have to pay 1.25 times the normal toll. This rule is applicable nationwide from November 15th.