Important news for drivers who regularly travel on national highways. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has amended the rules for FASTag annual concessional passes. Under this new arrangement, local residents living within 20 km of a toll plaza will be able to obtain annual passes. This is expected to provide relief to those who pay tolls daily.

How much will the annual pass cost?

According to the new rules, if the toll plaza is outside the limits of a municipality or local urban area, the fee for an annual pass will be ₹1,500. However, if the toll plaza is within the limits of a municipality or local self-government body, vehicle owners will have to pay ₹3,000 for the entire year. Previously, a monthly pass cost up to ₹4,320 per year. In comparison, the new annual pass may be more affordable for some eligible drivers. However, to avail this facility, the vehicle in question must be registered for private use and must have a FASTag installed.

Passes will not be valid at every toll plaza.
This scheme cannot be availed at all toll plazas. The discount is only available at the specific toll plaza for which the annual pass has been issued. Therefore, charges may be levied at other toll plazas along the route of travel. Furthermore, this discount will not be applicable at locations where there is a toll collection system on national highways or expressways.

Fees will change every year.
According to the Ministry's regulations, the annual pass fee will be reviewed on April 1st. Therefore, pass rates may change in future years. Overall, this scheme can be beneficial for private vehicle owners who live near toll plazas and travel regularly. However, it is important to check the relevant toll plaza's conditions before obtaining a pass.

PC: INDIA TV HINDI