Govt Clarifies No Satellite-Based Tolling from May 1: ANPR-FASTag Hybrid System to be Piloted

Several media outlets recently reported that a satellite-based tolling system would be launched across India from May 1, 2025, replacing the existing FASTag-based toll collection. This news caused confusion among commuters and stakeholders.

To clarify, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have issued a statement confirming that no such nationwide decision has been taken.

Read More: FASTag Rules Change from Today: What It Means for You

ANPR-FASTag Hybrid System to be Piloted at Select Toll Plazas

In a move aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing travel time, NHAI is working on introducing an ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System at select toll plazas.

This system aims to enable seamless and barrier-free movement of vehicles, minimising congestion at toll booths.

How the New System Works: A Blend of ANPR and FASTag

The proposed tolling mechanism integrates:

• Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): High-performance cameras will automatically detect vehicle number plates.

• FASTag RFID Technology: The current FASTag system, using Radio-Frequency Identification, will continue for toll deduction.

Vehicles will be charged without needing to stop at the toll plaza. The toll amount will be deducted automatically based on vehicle recognition.

E-Notices and Penalties for Violations

To ensure compliance with the new system, e-Notices will be sent to violators. If toll charges remain unpaid:

• FASTag accounts may be suspended

• Penalties under the VAHAN rules could be imposed

This mechanism is expected to deter non-compliance and promote smoother toll operations.

Pilot Implementation and Future Nationwide Rollout

NHAI has invited bids for implementing the ANPR-FASTag hybrid system at selected locations. Based on:

• Operational performance

• System efficiency

• User feedback

A decision regarding the nationwide rollout will be taken. Until then, the existing FASTag-based tolling system remains in force.

Conclusion

The government has not announced any nationwide shift to satellite-based tolling. The ANPR-FASTag hybrid system is currently under pilot testing to assess its feasibility for future rollout.

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