New Toll Plaza Rule from November 15: Higher Fees for Non-FASTag Vehicles; What Commuters Must Know

From November 15th, the Government of India will implement higher toll charges for vehicles travelling on National Highways without a valid FASTag. This new toll plaza Rule comes under the Third Amendment, 2025, to the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008.

Cash and UPI Payments Will Now Cost More

According to the new rules, vehicles paying tolls in cash will now be charged double the regular toll fee, while UPI payments will cost 1.25 times the standard fee.

According to the press release by PIB, "For instance, if the normal toll is Rs. 100, cash users will pay Rs. 200, UPI users Rs. 125, and FASTag users will continue paying Rs. 100. This extra payment will force the commuters to adopt FASTag for cashless toll payments, which are faster, secure, and reduce waiting times."

Benefits for Commuters and Transporters

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) expects these changes to improve toll collection efficiency and reduce congestion at toll plazas. Daily commuters, long-distance travellers, and goods transporters have been encouraged to ensure their vehicles are FASTag-enabled.

One of the key benefits of this amendment is the promotion of digital payments at toll plazas.

Cash transactions can be slow, prone to errors, and contribute to longer queues. While UPI payments offer a temporary alternative, using FASTag is the most efficient method. So, the government hopes to achieve transparent fee collection and reduce toll plaza congestion, particularly during busy travel periods and festive seasons.

Commuters should check their FASTag accounts to ensure sufficient balance and avoid paying extra fees. Vehicles without FASTag or those using cash will face higher toll charges, which can add up during long trips.

Fastag Annual Pass

Recently, the FASTag Annual Pass was introduced on August 15th this year, giving a prepaid toll payment option specifically for private non-commercial vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans. The annual pass costs Rs 3,000 and is valid for either one year or up to 200 toll crossings on National Highways and National Expressways, whichever comes first.