Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has officially denied reports suggesting the discontinuation of the FASTag system from May 1, 2025. Contrary to claims of a nationwide shift to a satellite-based tolling system, the ministry confirmed that FASTag will remain the primary method for toll collection across India. No decision has been made to replace FASTag with GPS-based tolling at this time.

Introduction of ANPR-FASTag Hybrid System

While dismissing the satellite tolling rumors, MoRTH announced the testing of an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system integrated with FASTag at select toll plazas. This barrier-less tolling system aims to enhance traffic flow by allowing vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping, as high-resolution cameras will capture license plate details and deduct toll charges automatically from the linked FASTag account.

Nationwide Implementation Dependent on Trial Outcomes

The government emphasized that the nationwide rollout of the ANPR-FASTag system will depend on the results of ongoing trials and user feedback. Tenders have been issued for implementing this hybrid system, but a full-scale deployment will only occur after assessing its performance and effectiveness in reducing congestion and improving toll collection efficiency.

Understanding FASTag and Its Significance

FASTag is a prepaid tag affixed to a vehicle's windshield, utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enable automatic toll payments. As vehicles pass through toll plazas, scanners read the FASTag, and the applicable toll amount is deducted from the linked account, eliminating the need for cash transactions and reducing wait times. This system has significantly improved travel efficiency on national highways and is a crucial component of India's digital infrastructure for transportation.

Availability and Usage of FASTag

Motorists can obtain FASTags from various sources, including toll plazas, branches of banks like Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, SBI, and Kotak Mahindra Bank, as well as online platforms such as Paytm, Amazon, and Google Pay. To activate a FASTag, users must provide valid identification and vehicle registration documents. Once activated, the FASTag can be recharged through multiple channels, ensuring seamless toll payments across the country's highways.