The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a significant change to the toll payment system, proving to be a boon for regular travellers. This new technology-based system aims to save time, improve traffic flow, and make highway travel extremely convenient. This new option for FASTag users is not only digital but also eliminates the hassle of repeated payments.
Toll Payment Changes
This year, the NHAI introduced the FASTag Annual Pass. Once activated, this pass can be used throughout the year. This pass is especially beneficial for those who travel on the highway daily or frequently. Obtaining an Annual Pass eliminates the worry of being charged a toll each time, reducing the need to stop at toll plazas.
This FASTag-enabled pass is directly linked to the vehicle’s tag, allowing for automatic entry and exit. This has made toll collection faster and more accurate. NHAI believes that this system will reduce congestion at toll plazas and significantly eliminate traffic jams.
Direct Benefits to Regular Commuters
The biggest benefit of the FASTag Annual Pass is being felt by regular commuters. For those who travel daily for work, business, or long distances, this system saves both time and money. Fuel consumption caused by frequent stops at toll plazas is also reduced. Digital records of each transaction are maintained, making it easier to report any discrepancies.
Reduced stops have made highway travel more seamless and stress-free. Truck and bus drivers are also benefiting as they find it easier to complete their journeys on time. Overall, the focus of the FASTag Annual Pass is to make highway travel faster, easier, and more reliable.
Technological Changes to the FASTag Facility
Changes to the FASTag Facility are now being implemented at the system level. According to official information, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has further strengthened the National Electronic Toll Collection technology. It aims to make the toll system across the country completely digital and interconnected.
The new technology involves installing an RFID device on a vehicle’s windscreen. As a vehicle passes through a toll plaza, the toll amount is automatically deducted from the driver’s linked bank account without stopping. This eliminates cash payments, long lines, and wasted time. The new system is considered a major step towards making toll collection faster, more accurate, and transparent.