New Delhi. The government has implemented a new rule to further digitize toll payments on national highways. Cash payments will now be more expensive for vehicles without a FASTag, while payments made using UPI will incur a lower fee.
According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the National Highway Toll Rules of 2008 have been amended. The new rule will come into effect from November 15, 2025. Under this, if a vehicle passes through a toll plaza without a FASTag and pays in cash, it will have to pay double the toll. However, if the same vehicle pays through UPI, it will only have to pay 1.25 times the toll. For example, a toll of Rs 100 paid using a FASTag will result in Rs 200 in cash and Rs 125 in UPI.
Purpose of the Rule: Digital Payments and Transparency
The primary objective of this change is to reduce cash transactions on national highways and promote digital payments. The ministry states that this will make the toll collection process robust and transparent. The use of FASTag and UPI will make travel easier and faster for passengers, saving time and avoiding long lines.
What the new rule means for travelers:
According to experts, the new rule will serve as a warning to travelers who still rely on cash. FASTag has become mandatory, and payments made through UPI will be beneficial. This move will not only promote digital transactions but also help streamline traffic and toll collection on national highways.
This rule, which will come into effect in November 2025, is another major step towards Digital India. Travelers have been advised to get a FASTag in advance and use features like UPI to avoid additional charges and make their travel easier.
