Government Announced Pilot Program of ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System

In response to certain media reports claiming that a Satellite-based Tolling System will be launched from 1st May 2025 to replace the current FASTag-based toll collection, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have officially denied any such decision. Instead, the government has announced a pilot implementation of a more advanced ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System at selected toll plazas.

Key Highlights

No Nationwide Rollout of Satellite Tolling Yet

• The Ministry clarifies that there is no plan to replace FASTag with satellite tolling starting 1st May 2025.

What is Being Introduced?

• A new system combining Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and the existing FASTag (RFID) system is set to be piloted at selected locations.

Barrier-Less Toll Collection

• The new method enables seamless travel without stopping at toll plazas, as cameras and readers will auto-detect and deduct toll.

Technology Used

• ANPR cameras: Detect vehicles through number plate recognition.
• FASTag readers: Deduct toll from linked accounts using RFID.

E-Notice for Non-Compliance

• Vehicles evading toll or lacking valid FASTag will receive E-Notices.
• Penalties may include FASTag suspension or VAHAN-related restrictions.

Pilot Implementation

• NHAI is inviting bids for implementation at selected toll plazas. Based on the system’s efficiency and user experience, a decision on nationwide adoption will follow.

Status as of April 2025

• Only ANPR-FASTag technology is being introduced on a trial basis. Satellite-based tolling is NOT yet implemented.