The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is preparing to introduce a complete ban on cash payments at national highway toll plazas from April 1. According to a media report, commuters will be required to pay toll charges exclusively through FASTag or UPI.
This move aims to significantly reduce congestion at toll plazas by eliminating long queues caused by cash handling. By removing manual cash transactions and paper receipts, the initiative is expected to cut travel time and improve traffic flow.
Fewer stops at toll booths will also help optimise fuel consumption by reducing frequent braking and acceleration.
Additionally, digital payments will enhance transparency, as every transaction will be electronically recorded and easily traceable.
How to Download the FASTag App
For Android users:
Download the My FASTag app or the Rajmargyatra app from the Google Play Store.
For iOS (iPhone) users:
Download the My FASTag app or the Rajmargyatra app from the Apple App Store.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing the FASTag App
Open your device’s app store and search for “My FASTag” or “Rajmargyatra.”
Verify that the developer is Indian Highways Management Company Ltd.
(IHMCL) or the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to avoid unofficial third-party apps.
Tap Download or Install to add the app to your device.
Open the app and log in using your registered mobile number and OTP.
Link your IHMCL FASTag or manage your FASTag through the app.
Note: If your FASTag has been issued by a specific bank (such as ICICI, HDFC, or IDFC), you can also manage it directly via the bank’s official mobile banking app.
Common FASTag FAQs
FASTags are activated only after vehicle details are verified with the VAHAN database from February 1.
Post-activation KYC checks have been removed for private vehicles and will now apply only in complaint-based cases.
If FASTag scanning fails, motorists can pay 1.25 times the toll amount via UPI, avoiding the double cash penalty.
Cash payments at national highway toll plazas are expected to be fully phased out, potentially by April 1, 2026.
Private vehicle owners can opt for an annual FASTag pass priced at approximately ₹3,000, valid for 200 trips or one year.
Each FASTag is linked to a single vehicle; misuse can result in blacklisting.
FASTag balance can be checked via a missed call to +91-8884333331 or through the NHAI WhatsApp chatbot.
Waiting time at toll plazas should not exceed 10 seconds; vehicles are allowed free passage if queues extend beyond 100 metres.
Damaged FASTags must be replaced through the issuing bank, typically at a cost of around ₹100.