New Delhi: Frequent highway users in India may soon experience smoother travel as the central government considers introducing annual and lifetime toll passes to get rid of long queues and having to pay the toll fee from FASTags on national highways each time you cross them.
This initiative aims to ease congestion at toll plazas and make highway travel more cost-effective by allowing commuters to pay once and drive freely for an extended period.
Annual and lifetime toll plaza passes: How They Work
Under the proposed system, travellers could opt for an Annual Toll Pass priced at Rs 3,000, enabling unlimited travel on all national highways and expressways for a year. Alternatively, a Lifetime Toll Pass may be available for a one-time payment of Rs 30,000, valid for 15 years. These passes would be integrated into the existing FASTag system, ensuring a seamless transition from the current setup.
Currently, private vehicles contribute 26% of total toll revenue and are a major factor in toll booth congestion, especially during peak hours.
Current price of toll passes
At present, highway users can only purchase monthly toll passes for Rs 340 per month (Rs 4,080 annually), but these are limited to a single toll plaza. The proposed annual and lifetime passes would not only lower costs for frequent travellers but also provide unrestricted access to all toll roads nationwide.
The proposal is in its final stages of discussion with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. Additionally, the government is exploring ways to reduce the toll rate per kilometre to further benefit highway users.
FASTag for seamless access
Travellers will not need a separate card for the new toll pass. The existing FASTag electronic toll collection system will be used to activate the annual or lifetime pass, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition without requiring additional hardware or complicated procedures.
