The government has made a major change to the toll payment rules, which will be implemented across the country from November 15, 2025. Now, if you arrive at the toll without a FASTag, it could be more burdensome than before, although there is some good news.
If you frequently travel on highways, this news is extremely important for you. Starting November 15, 2025, a new rule will be implemented at toll plazas, directly impacting your pocketbook. Now, if your vehicle doesn’t have a FASTag or the tag fails, you could face a hefty fine. However, the government has announced a significant exemption for those making digital payments.
What is the new rule?
The central government has amended the National Highway Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, and implemented a new rule. Under this rule, drivers entering a toll plaza without a valid FASTag and paying with cash will be charged double the toll fee. However, if the same driver pays using UPI or a digital medium, they will only have to pay 1.25 times the toll fee. Consequently, drivers will now pay less with digital payments than with cash.
Understand with an example
- Suppose, the toll for your vehicle is Rs 100.
- If FASTag is working then only Rs 100 will be charged.
- If FASTag fails and you pay by cash, you will have to pay Rs 200.
- If FASTag fails and you pay through UPI, you will have to pay Rs 125.
- This means that now those making digital payments will get direct relief and those making cash transactions will have to pay more.
Why did the government make this change?
According to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the amendment aims to make the toll collection system transparent, reduce cash transactions, and promote digital payments. The ministry states that this move will not only reduce long queues at toll plazas but also provide a faster and smoother travel experience for commuters.
Who will get the most relief?
This change will be especially beneficial for drivers whose FASTags are unable to be scanned or whose tags have expired. Previously, they were forced to pay double the toll, but now they will find relief by paying via UPI.
