Recent media reports claimed a satellite-based tolling system would replace FASTag nationwide from May 1, 2025. However, the government has clarified this isn't true. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on Friday clarified that there is no decision to implement a satellite-based or GPS-based tolling system across India on that date. Toll plazas on national highways will continue operating with the existing ICD 2.5 protocol, enabling real-time FASTag verification. Users are advised to link their FASTag wallets to UPI or bank accounts with auto-recharge options for seamless toll payments.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari recently confirmed that the new toll policy would be rolled out across the country within 15 days. The upgraded system promises a more efficient and time-saving approach to toll payment, aligning with global best practices.
Initially slated for rollout on April 1, the launch was delayed due to a strategic shift from the US-based GPS to India’s indigenous GNSS technology, currently under development for nationwide implementation.
The system was first announced in June 2024, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) entrusted with its execution. In the first phase, the GPS-based toll system will be deployed on commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. Private cars and smaller vehicles will follow in the second phase.
This transition marks a milestone in India’s journey towards intelligent transportation systems, offering motorists a seamless and fair tolling experience.