FACT CHECK: Will FASTags be Replaced by Satellite-based Tolling System From May 1? Here's The Truth

New Delhi: Amid rumours of FASTags being replaced by a satellite-based tolling system From May 1, a press note has been released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarifying that no such decision has been taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from 1st May 2025. 

No Launch of Satellite-based Tolling System from 1st May      

In the press note, PIB clarified, saying, “Some sections of the media have reported that a satellite-based tolling system will be launched from 1st May 2025 and will replace the existing FASTag-based toll collection system. This is to clarify that no such decision has been taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways or National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling from 1st May 2025.

To enable seamless, barrier-free movement of vehicles through toll plazas and reduce travel time, an 'ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ will be implemented at selected toll plazas.

The advanced tolling system will combine ‘Automatic Number Plate Recognition’ (ANPR) technology, which will identify vehicles by reading their number plates, and the existing ‘FASTag system’ that uses Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) for toll deduction. Under this, 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.

NHAI has invited bids for the implementation of the 'ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ that will be installed at selected toll plazas. Based on the performance, efficiency, and user response to this system, a decision will be made regarding its implementation across the country.” 

 No GPS Toll System 

On the contrary, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has planned to install Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, which is largely misunderstood to be a satellite-based tolling system.

This ANPR system is being installed to identify vehicles by reading their number plates, enable seamless, barrier-free movement of vehicles through toll plazas and reduce travel time. This will be a pilot-based project initially installed at selected toll plazas, and after the response, a decision will be made regarding its implementation across the country.

Since there's no such decision of a satellite-based tolling system that has been taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways or National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the nationwide implementation of satellite-based tolling, citizens are advised not to believe in any such news.