TTU: The Government of India has introduced a new FASTag Annual Pass for non-commercial private vehicles. This move aims to make highway travel more efficient and less costly.
Under the new scheme, users can make up to 200 trips on national highways in a year by paying a one-time fee of ₹3,000. The pass is valid for either 200 trips or one year from activation—whichever comes first.
What Is the FASTag Annual Pass?
The FASTag Annual Pass is a fixed-fee policy for toll payments. It is linked to a vehicle’s existing FASTag account. Once activated, it allows seamless travel on all national highways without repeated toll deductions for each trip, until the 200-ride limit is reached or one year passes.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways says this pass is expected to reduce toll booth congestion and wait times. It also simplifies toll payments.
What Is FASTag?
FASTag is a toll payment system in India that works using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology.
A FASTag sticker is fixed on the front windshield of the vehicle. When the vehicle approaches a toll plaza, sensors read the tag. The toll amount is then deducted automatically from the linked bank account or digital wallet. A text message confirms each transaction.
This system is run by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
When Will the FASTag Annual Pass Start?
The annual pass will be available from August 15. According to Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, the new system solves ongoing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60-km range.
He added that the FASTag Annual Pass will help reduce travel delays and avoid disputes at toll booths.
How to Apply for the FASTag Annual Pass
Applying for the pass will be a digital process. You can use the following platforms once the feature goes live:
- Rajmarg Yatra App
- NHAI official website
- Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) website
Step-by-Step Process:
- Go to any of the mentioned websites or app.
- Log in using your FASTag account details.
- Enter your vehicle number and mobile number.
- Pay ₹3,000 using UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
- Once payment is made, your pass will be linked to your FASTag.
- Activation will complete within 24 hours.
After activation, your vehicle can travel up to 200 times on national highways without paying toll at each plaza.
Other Toll Policy Updates
In the past, the government suggested a lifetime FASTag plan costing ₹30,000 for 15 years. That plan is now on hold.
There was also a proposal for a distance-based toll system. In that model, vehicles would be charged a flat fee of ₹50 per 100 km. However, no formal decision has been made yet.
