The Union government has introduced digital-only toll collection at all National Highway fee plazas in the country, aiming to enhance efficiency and transparency. This initiative, effective from April 10, mandates all user fee payments at highway toll plazas to be processed solely through digital modes like FASTag and Unified Payments Interface (UPI). However, the implementation has been paused in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, and Puducherry due to the Model Code of Conduct during ongoing elections.
The transition to fully digital toll collection is anticipated to streamline operations, reduce congestion at toll plazas, and enhance revenue collection transparency. FASTag, with over 98% penetration, has significantly revolutionized toll collection practices in India. Most toll transactions are now electronically processed through FASTag, enabling seamless and contactless passage through toll plazas.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has also activated UPI payment facilities at National Highway toll plazas, providing instant and convenient digital payment options for commuters nationwide. Vehicles without a valid and functional FASTag entering a fee plaza are currently charged double the user fee if payment is made in cash.
Moreover, the FASTag Annual Pass has garnered over 50 lakh users, with more than 26.55 crore transactions recorded within six months of its launch. This annual pass, available for a one-time payment of Rs 3,000, eliminates the need for frequent recharges and covers up to 200 toll crossings. NHAI has revised the FASTag Annual Pass fee for the financial year 2026–27 to Rs 3,075, effective from April 1, in compliance with the National Highways Fee Rules of 2008.
