There is important news for drivers traveling on highways. From April 1st, cash will not be accepted at any toll plazas in the country. The central government has decided to make toll plazas completely cashless, and toll fees will only have to be paid via FASTag or UPI. This will significantly reduce long queues at toll booths, disputes over cash, and traffic congestion. This information was provided by V. Umashankar, Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, in an interview. He clarified that the method of paying cash at toll plazas will be completely stopped, and the government's main objective is to make travel faster and smoother. Although the official notification has not yet been issued, there are clear indications that this rule will be implemented nationwide from April 1st.
Even though FASTag is currently mandatory, cash transactions are still happening at many toll plazas, causing drivers to stop. This is leading to traffic congestion, wastage of time, and increased fuel costs. To solve this issue, the government is emphasizing cashless tolling. Currently, the 'no-stop cashless tolling system' is being tested at about 25 toll plazas in the country, and positive results are being observed. There are three main reasons behind this government decision. First, to reduce fuel wastage caused by frequent stops at toll booths. Second, since every transaction is digital, transparency will increase and fraud in toll collection will be curbed. Third and most importantly, travel time will be reduced, making highway traffic more efficient.
This decision is considered the first step towards the government's future multi-lane free flow (MLFF) tolling system. Under this system, physical toll booths on highways will be eliminated in the future. Tolls will be automatically deducted by identifying vehicles through cameras and sensors without stopping. Meanwhile, drivers should check their FASTag balance and keep it active before April 1. If there is no FASTag, it is necessary to keep UPI payment enabled on the mobile. It has also been warned that if you reach the toll plaza without digital payment after the rules are implemented, action may be taken to fine or send you back.