Tag - highway travel FASTag

Key highlights The government will roll out a FASTag-based annual pass from August 15, 2025, priced at INR 3,000. The pass is valid for 200 highway trips or one year, whichever comes first, and is exclusive to private non-commercial vehicles. Activation and renewal will be available via the Rajmarg Yatra app and official NHAI and MoRTH websites. In a major move to streamline toll payments and reduce congestion, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced the launch of a FASTag-based annual pass, effective Independence Day 2025. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed that the initiative is aimed at private vehicle owners, offering a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for frequent highway users. What is the FASTag annual pass? The annual pass is priced at INR 3,000 and is valid for 200 trips or one year, whichever comes first. It is applicable only to non-commercial vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans. The pass will allow users to bypass routine toll deductions, consolidating payments into a single prepaid transaction. This move addresses long-standing concerns about closely spaced toll plazas, especially those within 60 km of each other, and aims to minimize disputes and delays at toll booths. How to activate the pass? Vehicle owners can activate or renew the pass through: The Rajmarg Yatra mobile app The official NHAI website The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) portal Once activated, the FASTag will be linked to the annual pass within 24 hours, enabling seamless travel across India’s national highways. Why it matters? The annual pass is expected to: Reduce wait times at toll plazas Ease traffic congestion Simplify toll payments for frequent travelers It also offers a more affordable alternative to monthly passes, which currently cost around INR 4,080 annually for specific toll plazas. The government hopes this initiative will boost digital toll adoption and enhance the overall highway experience for millions of private vehicle owners. This is the kind of Independence Day gift I can get behind—no more fumbling for change or watching your FASTag balance like a hawk. The INR 3,000 flat fee for 200 trips is a sweet deal for road warriors, especially those who commute regularly between cities. Also read: New-gen Toyota Harrier under works, launch in 2027