FASTag to stay as a satellite system, still under review | Fusion - WeRIndia

Despite recent media buzz, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has clarified that there is no final decision to implement a satellite-based toll collection system nationwide from May 1, 2025.

While such reports suggested an imminent shift away from the current FASTag system, the ministry confirmed that no official timeline has been set for such a transition.

Currently, FASTag remains the primary method of toll collection in India. The system uses Radio Frequency Identification stickers placed on a vehicle’s windshield, which are linked to prepaid or bank accounts.

As a vehicle crosses a toll plaza, the sticker is scanned, and the toll is deducted automatically. This method has been successful in reducing waiting times and easing congestion on highways.

However, to further modernise toll collection and improve efficiency, the government is exploring a new system known as barrier-less tolling.

Although not yet fully implemented, this advanced system is being tested at selected toll plazas across the country.

It integrates Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology with the existing FASTag infrastructure.

ANPR cameras are capable of reading vehicle license plates, allowing tolls to be collected without the need to stop at booths.

Moreover, this hybrid system aims to make travel smoother by eliminating physical toll barriers.

When operational, vehicles will pass through these toll points without slowing down, while their number plates and FASTags are scanned in real-time.

If a vehicle is non-compliant or lacks a valid FASTag, an e-notice will be issued. Should the fine remain unpaid, further actions, such as suspension of the FASTag and additional penalties, could follow.

While the government is taking active steps toward more efficient tolling, there is no immediate replacement of the FASTag system. For now, the ministry’s focus remains on refining current practices and reducing bottlenecks.

Therefore, Indian drivers can continue using FASTag, as more advanced systems are still under development and far from nationwide implementation.

Image Credit: TeshTesh, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Toll_Plaza_on_Roads_in_India_NH_27_National_Highway_Rajasthan_NH76_(old_system)_in_India.jpg