The FASTag system will end soon, and a new system will take over
Vehicles won't need to stop at the toll plaza when the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) based toll collecting system goes into force on March 1, 2025. The technology will be entirely digital.
Let’s have a quick peep into what’s new?
A couple of the main features of the new FASTag system are as follows:
Satellite-Based Tracking - The technology will use GPS and GNSS to determine the location of the vehicle and the journey on the highway.
Toll to be deducted directly from the Bank - Toll fee will be deducted directly from the bank account as per the distance travelled by the vehicle.
No need for FASTag - The system will not be requiring RFID stickers like FASTag as this technology will automatically deduct the toll by tracking the vehicle.
Smooth Traffic on Highway - Since the cars won't have to stop at toll plaza, the problem of jams will be reduced.
The newly introduced FASTag system is planned to be implemented in a phased manner. The absolute implementation of the FASTag will be done in 3 phases, and below are the complete details about the same.
The technology will be made mandatory in the new vehicles.
The process of connecting the old vehicles to the new system will begin.
The nationwide implementation of this toll collection system will be completed.
The government has confirmed that this system will be rolled out across the country starting March 1, 2025. The key benefit of this updated system is that toll charges will now be based on the actual distance traveled rather than a fixed fee for an entire toll plaza.
This change will be especially beneficial for those who only use short sections of the highway daily.
Previously, toll charges applied to the full plaza regardless of distance, but under the new system, users will only pay for the kilometers they travel.
If you already have a FASTag, there’s no need for concern, as the government will soon notify all vehicle owners about upgrading to the new system. You simply need to update your vehicle registration so that the toll system can be linked to your bank account.
The transition from FASTag to the GNSS-based toll collection system marks a significant advancement in India's highway infrastructure. This modern, satellite-based technology will ensure a seamless travel experience, eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas. With toll charges now being calculated based on actual distance traveled, the new system is expected to be more cost-effective and fair for commuters. Implemented in a phased manner, the system will first be introduced in new vehicles and later integrated into existing ones.
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