If you’re a daily commuter who finds toll payments unmanageable and has always wanted a more convenient solution, there’s good news for you. The Indian Government is considering the introduction of annual and lifetime toll passes aimed at providing regular travelers with a hassle-free and cost-effective experience on national highways. If everything moves smoothly, this initiative will ensure to make travel more seamless while also easing congestion at toll plazas.
Currently, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways is in the final stages of evaluating this proposal. Should it be approved, daily commuters will have two options for toll passes:
1. Annual Toll Pass: This pass will allow unlimited travel on national highways and expressways for a year for INR 3,000.
2. Lifetime Toll Pass: It will be valid for 15 years. And this pass will require a one-time payment of INR 30,000, thus eliminating the need for frequent toll payments.
These new passes will integrate with the existing FASTag system. Hence, it will ensure a seamless digital transaction process without the necessity for additional apps or devices. While there is currently a toll pass system available, it is limited to users at a single toll plaza, costing INR 340 monthly and INR 4080 annually. In contrast, the proposed toll passes would grant access to multiple plazas across India.
This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on frequent highway users. It also addresses growing public dissatisfaction regarding toll plazas located within municipal limits, the proximity of toll gates, and incidents of violence at toll booths. Ultimately, it will enhance the overall efficiency of our national highway network.
