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The Indian government has introduced a new FASTag-based annual pass for private vehicles, priced at Rs 3,000. This new pass will be available starting from August 15, 2025, and is only for non-commercial vehicles.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said, "The annual pass will enable seamless and cost-effective travel across national highways throughout the country." The pass will be valid for one year from the date of activation or for 200 trips—whichever comes first.
The pass aims to make travel smoother and simpler for vehicle owners. Mr Gadkari said, "This policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60 km range and simplifies toll payments through a single, affordable transaction."
Pass will be available through app and websites
Mr Gadkari also informed that "a dedicated link for activation and renewal will soon be made available on the Rajmarg Yatra App as well as on the official websites of NHAI (National Highways Authority of India) and MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways)."
He added that this new plan will help reduce waiting time at toll plazas, lower congestion, and avoid arguments over toll charges. "By reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimising disputes at toll plazas, the annual pass aims to deliver a faster and smoother travel experience for millions of private vehicle owners."
More changes in toll collection expected
Last month, there were talks about two new toll options. One was the Rs 3,000 annual pass, which is now announced. The second was a distance-based toll system, which would charge Rs 50 per 100 km instead of the usual toll plaza fees. It is still not clear if the government will introduce this second option.
Earlier, the government also thought about a 'lifetime FASTag' for Rs 30,000 valid for 15 years, but this plan was cancelled.
The current FASTag system will continue for now, but the government plans to switch to sensor-based toll collection in the future using GPS and automated tracking systems.