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In a major move to tighten digital toll collection, the government has introduced new rules related to FASTag payments on national highways. Under the revised system, if toll charges are not deducted while passing through a barrier-less toll plaza, vehicle owners must clear the dues within 72 hours—or risk paying double the amount.

This new regulation aims to improve compliance and strengthen India’s growing electronic toll collection network.

What Is the New Toll Rule?

As per the updated guidelines, vehicles passing through barrier-free toll plazas—enabled by the FASTag system—must ensure that toll charges are successfully deducted.

If the toll fee is not deducted due to any reason, it will be marked as an “unpaid user fee.” In such cases:

• The vehicle owner will receive an e-notice

• Payment must be completed within 72 hours

• Failure to pay within the deadline will result in a double toll penalty

How Will You Be Notified?

The government has introduced a digital notification system to keep vehicle owners informed.

The e-notice will include:

• Vehicle details

• Toll plaza location and date of passage

• Pending toll amount

It will be sent through:

• SMS

• Email

• Mobile apps

• Online portals

The system is integrated with the VAHAN database to ensure accurate identification and faster recovery of dues.

72-Hour Rule: Pay or Pay More

Here’s how the payment timeline works:

• Within 72 hours:
  You only need to pay the original toll amount

• After 72 hours:
  You will be charged double the toll fee as a penalty

This rule is designed to discourage delays and ensure timely payments.

What If the Toll Charge Is Incorrect?

To protect users, the government has also provided a grievance mechanism.

• Vehicle owners can file a complaint within 72 hours

• Toll agencies must resolve it within 5 days

• If no action is taken within this period, the toll claim will be automatically cancelled

This ensures fairness and accountability in the system.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay at All?

If the unpaid toll remains pending for 15 days and no complaint is filed:

• The dues will be recorded in the VAHAN system

• Restrictions may be imposed on vehicle-related services

This could affect:

• RC (Registration Certificate) transfer

• Renewal of vehicle documents

In simple terms, unpaid tolls can now impact essential vehicle services—not just result in a penalty.

Why This Rule Matters

The government is rapidly moving toward a barrier-less toll collection system, where vehicles do not need to stop at toll plazas. While this improves traffic flow and efficiency, it also requires stricter enforcement mechanisms.

The new rule aims to:

• Prevent toll evasion

• Ensure timely payments

• Increase transparency

• Strengthen digital infrastructure

Final Takeaway

If you use highways regularly, it’s now more important than ever to monitor your FASTag transactions. Make sure your FASTag account has sufficient balance and check for any unpaid dues promptly.

Ignoring toll notices could cost you double—and even block important vehicle services.

Disclaimer: Rules and penalties may vary based on updates from authorities. Always check official notifications for the latest information.