GUWAHATI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on Friday, April 18, issued a clarification refuting reports that claimed FASTags would be replaced by a satellite-based tolling system from May 1.
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The ministry stated in particular that a hybrid tolling system integrating Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) with the existing FASTag model is being introduced at select toll plazas.
“Some sections of the media have reported that a Satellite-based Tolling System will be launched from 1st May 2025 and will replace the existing FASTag-based toll collection system,” MoRTH clarified in an official statement. “This is to clarify that no such decision has been taken regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from 1st May 2025.”
Instead of the full-scale shift, the ministry asserted that the new system has been introduced to ensure barrier-less tolling and facilitate smoother traffic movement. The new model will use ANPR technology to scan vehicle number plates and cross-verify them with the Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)-based FASTag system to automatically deduct tolls.
Under this dual-technology approach, congestion and delays at toll booths have been expected to decrease.
Relatedly, authorities have also confirmed that vehicles violating toll payment norms will receive e-notices. In cases of repeated non-compliance, FASTags may be suspended and penalties could be imposed under VAHAN-related provisions.