New Delhi: Vehicle owners may soon get a new and easier way to pay tolls in India. The government is planning to introduce a FASTag Annual Pass that will allow unlimited travel on national highways and expressways. This was reported by the Times of India on May 24.
The new system is being considered by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). If introduced, the FASTag Annual Pass will cost Rs 3,000 per year. With this one-time payment, users can travel freely across highways without paying toll charges each time.
This move is expected to make road travel smoother and more affordable, especially for people who travel long distances often.
Two Payment Options to Be Offered
The government is also working on a dual toll payment system. Vehicle owners can choose between:
The Annual Pass
Pay Rs 3,000 once a year and enjoy unlimited travel on all national highways and expressways. This is best for people who travel regularly.
Distance-Based Pricing
This is a pay-as-you-go option. Under this system, users will pay Rs 50 for every 100 kilometers they travel. This option is better for those who don’t use highways very often.
Both options are meant to give people more freedom to choose what works best for them. Frequent travellers can save money with the annual pass, while occasional users can go for the distance-based fee.
Why This Change Matters
The government wants to make toll payments easier and more flexible. This new plan could reduce traffic at toll booths, save time, and improve the driving experience. It will also help in better toll collection and planning for future road projects.
The official announcement is still awaited, but the move is likely to benefit millions of drivers across India.
