Ending speculations, Centre says Satellite-based Tolling System not to replace existing FASTag-based toll system
Calling reports as 'rumors', MoRTH said no such decision has been taken
By Sri Lakshmi Muttevi
Representational Image.
New Delhi: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has clarified that the Satellite-based Tolling System will not replace the existing FASTag-based toll collection system in the country.
Calling reports as `rumors', MoRTH said no such decision has been taken either by it or the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
"Some sections of the media have reported that a Satellite-based Tolling System will be launched from 1st May 2025 and will replace the existing FASTag-based toll collection system. This is to clarify that no such decision has been taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways or National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from 1st May 2025," MoRTH said in a statement.
Instead, to enable seamless, barrier-free movement of vehicles through toll plazas and reduce travel time, the government is planning an 'ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System' at selected toll plazas. The advanced tolling system will combine 'Automatic Number Plate Recognition' (ANPR) technology, which will identify vehicles by reading their number plates, and the existing 'FASTag system' that uses Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) for toll deduction.
Under this initiative, vehicles will be charged based on their identification through high performance ANPR cameras and FASTag Readers, without needing to stop at the toll plazas.
MoRTH noted that e-notices will be issued to motorists who fail to comply with toll payment norms, and non-payment could lead to FASTag suspension along with other penalties under the VAHAN system.
NHAI has invited bids for the implementation of an ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System that will be installed at selected toll plazas. Based on the performance, efficiency, and user response to this system, a decision will be made regarding its implementation across the country.
