New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has clarified that there are no attempts being made to introduce a satellite-based tolling system along Indian National Highways anytime soon. This statement was released on Friday after a section of media reported that satellite-based tolling would come into effect from May 1, 2025.
“No such decision has been taken by MoRTH or the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from May 1, 2025,” it has been clarified in the statement.
However, an ‘ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ will be implemented at select toll plazas. ANPR stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition. What MoRTH plans to do is install ANPR cameras at toll booths to get details of an approaching vehicle and then link it to its FASTag to deduct the appropriate amount of toll from the connected bank account.
The toll plazas where this system will be installed, will have no barriers and vehicles can simply pass through without stopping, thereby reducing travel time.
“Vehicles will be charged based on their identification through high performance ANPR cameras and FASTag Readers, without needing to stop at the toll plazas. In case of non-compliance, E-Notices will be served to the violators, non-payment of which may result in suspension of FASTag and other VAHAN related penalties,” the statement says.
NHAI has invited bids for implementation of ‘ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ that will be installed at select toll plazas. Based on the performance, efficiency, and user response to this system, a decision will be made regarding its implementation across the country.
