With the expansion of the National Highway and Expressway network in India, people are increasingly using their cars to travel between cities. However, this travel is often associated with the hassle of toll taxes, requiring frequent payments, causing inconvenience to many.
Nitin Gadkari: The growing network of National Highways and Expressways across the country has made intercity travel easier. However, this convenience is coupled with the problem of toll tax payments, causing inconvenience to many travelers. The central government is now addressing this issue. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a new toll policy will be implemented for FASTag, allowing travelers a single recharge for toll-free travel for an entire year.
New Toll Policy on FASTag
Under the new policy, FASTag holders will need a single recharge of ₹3,000, after which they will not have to pay any toll tax at any toll plaza for a full year. After this recharge, travelers can cross toll plazas an unlimited number of times, eliminating the worry of frequent toll payments and maintaining minimum balance.
Thousands of people across the country use National Highways and Expressways daily, and paying toll tax each time becomes a waste of time and energy. This new policy will particularly benefit travelers who regularly undertake long-distance journeys.
What was the alternative option?
Reports suggest that the central government considered another option. Under this, a sum of ₹30,000 would be collected upon purchasing a new car, in exchange for toll-free travel at any plaza for 15 years. However, due to a lack of consensus among stakeholders, this option has been abandoned.
Under the new formula, a digital record of vehicles exiting toll plazas will be maintained, helping the government assess losses. The difference between the claims of concessionaires and contractors and the actual collection will then be compensated by the government under a specific formula.
When will the new policy be implemented?
This new policy will be particularly beneficial for those who regularly travel between cities. After its implementation, long-distance travelers will not only save time but also be relieved of the hassle of toll tax payments. However, no official date has been released regarding the implementation of this new toll policy, but it is expected to be implemented soon. Its implementation by the central government could provide significant relief to travelers, especially those who regularly use highways.
