The new FASTag-based annual pass will be applicable only on highways and expressways operated by the NHAI. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced the new FASTag-based annual pass, which will be available from August 15, 2025.
Priced at Rs 3,000, the pass is designed to simplify toll payments and make travel seamless for private, non-commercial vehicles, such as cars, jeeps, and vans. However, there are some significant limitations to its use.
Validity
The most important condition of this pass is that it will be valid only on highways and expressways operated by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It will not be accepted on routes under the jurisdiction of state governments, which limits its utility to a large extent, especially in states like Maharashtra.
In Maharashtra, the pass will be valid only at 18 of the 87 toll plazas. It will not be accepted at major state-run expressways like Samruddhi Mahamarg, Atal Setu or other state highways and toll roads. This has led to criticism that this pass will not be very useful for many citizens of the state.
Terms and limitations of the pass
There are also some terms and conditions attached to this pass. A minimum balance of Rs 200 has to be maintained in the FASTag account at all times and the fee of Rs 3,000 is non-refundable. The recharge done for the pass may go waste if the user does not travel enough on NHAI routes.
The pass will be linked to the vehicle's existing RFID-based FASTag and will be activated automatically when the vehicle comes within 60 km of an eligible NHAI toll plaza. This pass is non-transferable and vehicles that have FASTag registered only on their chassis number will not be eligible for this pass.