In a groundbreaking move to make toll payments simpler, more accessible, and affordable, the central government will launch the annual FASTag pass initiative priced at ₹3,000, starting from August 15, 2025. This plan is particularly designed for private four-wheel vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans. Recognizing various queries post-announcement, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, released a video to clarify this initiative extensively.
Gadkari clarified that this scheme is strictly applicable to National Highways (NH) and not to state-operated roads such as expressways. He stated, "This strategic decision will allow more people to travel widely. Previously, travelers paid up to ₹10,000 in tolls. Now, with this new pass priced at an affordable ₹3,000, they gain validity for 200 trips per year. A trip constitutes a single toll crossing. Hence, it averages at just ₹15 per crossing, resulting in an annual saving of ₹7,000."
Source: aajtak
What is the New Annual FASTag Pass?
Price:
₹3,000
Validity:
One year or 200 toll crossings, whichever comes first
Beneficiaries:
Vehicles for personal use – cars, jeeps, vans
Starts:
From August 15, 2025
Platform:
Highway travel app, official websites of NHAI and MoRTH
How are trips counted on open and closed tolling systems?
Closed Tolling (e.g., Delhi-Mumbai Expressway):
One trip = One entrance and one exit-
Open Tolling (e.g., Delhi-Chandigarh route):
Each toll crossing counts as one trip-
Round Trip:
Considered as two trips-
If 200 trips are completed:
Pass can be recharged for ₹3,000 anytime before the year ends.
Where is this pass valid?
Valid:
National Highways (NH) and National Expressways (NE)
Invalid:
State highways under local authorities or government bodies
(Immediate deactivation if used by commercial vehicles)
Why was this scheme introduced?
Addressing concerns about multiple toll plazas within 60 km—frequent payments were needed- Significant relief for millions of daily private vehicle drivers- Reduction in toll disputes, congestion, and interruptions- Significant leap towards Digital India and electronic toll collection
Main Highlights from Gadkari's Statement
₹7,000 Savings:
Generally, for 200 annual toll crossings, people paid over ₹10,000. This scheme lowers expenses to ₹3,000, saving approximately ₹7,000.
Average toll expense just ₹15:
Many tolls charge ₹50, ₹80, or ₹100, but with this pass, the average cost per toll is merely ₹15.
Seamless toll crossings without stopping:
Gadkari announced upcoming advancements in toll plaza operations, significantly reducing stoppages, thereby saving both time and easing traffic.
Not applicable on state roads:
Gadkari clarified that this scheme is confined to national highways, under central authority.
Activation and Renewal Process
App:
Rajmarg Yatra App
Website:
nhai.gov.in, morth.nic.in
Essential Documents:
Valid FASTag, vehicle registration number, identification verification
Government's Vision: Digital, Affordable, and Hassle-Free Travel
Having made FASTag mandatory in India, the annual pass further strengthens the government's digital-first tolling policy. This not only enhances transparency in toll payments but also reduces traffic jams and disputes.
Nitin Gadkari said, "This scheme provides substantial relief to the public. I assure that it will ease common hardships, making journeys smoother and more affordable."
