The Indian government has introduced several toll pass options to ease the financial burden on commuters and streamline toll collection. Here’s a detailed overview of the current and proposed toll pass systems:
🛣️ Monthly Toll Pass for Local Residents (₹340)
Residents living within a 20 km radius of a toll plaza can avail a monthly toll pass for ₹340, allowing unlimited crossings at that specific toll plaza. This initiative by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) aims to support daily commuters, such as those traveling for work or school.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residence within 20 km of the toll plaza.
- Valid proof of residence (e.g., Aadhaar card, voter ID, utility bill).
- Ownership of a private vehicle.
Application Process:
- Gather necessary documents: proof of residence, vehicle registration certificate, and a valid FASTag account.
- Visit the administrative office of the relevant toll plaza.
- Submit the application form along with the required documents and payment.
- Upon verification, the pass will be linked to your FASTag or issued as a physical pass.
📡 GNSS-Based Tolling: Free Travel Up to 20 km
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has amended the National Highways Fee Rules to implement a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based tolling system. Under this system:
- Vehicles equipped with a functional GNSS device can travel toll-free for up to 20 km on national highways.
- Beyond 20 km, toll charges apply based on the actual distance traveled.
- Exclusive lanes may be designated for GNSS-equipped vehicles; entering these lanes without a GNSS device may result in double the standard toll fee.
🔁 Proposed Annual and Lifetime Toll Passes
To further simplify toll payments, the government is considering introducing:
- Annual Toll Pass: Priced at ₹3,000, offering unlimited travel on national highways for one year.
- Lifetime Toll Pass: A one-time payment of ₹30,000 for 15 years of unlimited highway access.
✅ Summary of Toll Pass Options
| Pass Type | Cost | Validity | Coverage | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Local Pass | ₹340 | 1 month | Specific toll plaza | Residents within 20 km radius |
| GNSS-Based Tolling | Varies | Per journey | National highways | Vehicles with GNSS device |
| Annual Toll Pass | ₹3,000 | 1 year | All national highways | Private vehicle owners |
| Lifetime Toll Pass | ₹30,000 | 15 years | All national highways | Private vehicle owners |
