Today, commuters on India’s national highways saw a big change as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) switched to digital toll collection, ending cash payments at all toll plazas.
Starting April 10, 2026, toll booths on national highways will stop accepting cash. Drivers will need to pay using FASTag or UPI-based digital payments.
The goal is to cut down on long lines, ease traffic, and make toll collection quicker and clearer.
For vehicles fitted with a valid and active FASTag, the toll will be deducted automatically from your linked bank account or wallet as you drive through the plaza without stopping. Officials recommend ensuring your FASTag is attached correctly, activated, has sufficient balance, and that your KYC details are up to date to avoid any problems. If inactive, drivers can still make a payment via UPI at the plaza. However, they will have to pay 1.25 times the normal toll fee – a 25 percent penalty. For instance, if the regular toll is ₹100, the UPI payment will cost ₹125.
Exemptions have also become stricter. SimplExemptions are now stricter. Showing ID or vehicle registration is no longer enough. Only vehicles with a valid FASTag exemption or an annual pass will receive concessions. The FASTag Annual Pass, which is helpful for frequent users and allows about 200 trips a year, will cost ₹3,075 starting April 1, 2026. Using digital modes may result in the vehicle being stopped and further action, including recovery of dues.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notified this change through a gazette to promote a fully cashless ecosystem on highways.
Motorists are urged to get their FASTag ready before hitting the road. Motorists are encouraged to get their FASTag ready before traveling to enjoy smooth journeys and avoid extra charges.
This digital change is expected to help millions of daily commuters by saving time and making India’s growing highway network more efficient.
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