Bye bye toll worries! Govt mulls Rs 30k lifetime highway pass
Frequent highway users in India may soon enjoy a hassle-free journey as the central government is considering introducing annual and lifetime toll passes. This initiative, aimed at reducing congestion at toll plazas and making highway travel more cost-effective, could allow commuters to pay once and drive freely for an extended period.
Proposed toll plaza passes: How does it work
Under the proposed system, travellers would have the option to purchase an Annual Toll Pass for Rs 3,000, granting unlimited travel across all national highways and expressways for a year. Alternatively, a Lifetime Toll Pass could be available for a one-time payment of Rs 30,000, valid for 15 years. These new passes would be integrated into the existing FASTag system, thus making sure that the users get a seamless transition from the existing system.
Currently, private vehicles account for 26 percent of total toll revenue and contribute to heavy traffic at toll booths, especially during peak hours. At present, highway users can only avail of monthly toll passes, which cost Rs 340 per month, adding up to Rs 4,080 annually. However, these monthly passes are restricted to a single toll plaza. The proposed annual and lifetime passes would not only reduce costs for regular commuters but also provide unrestricted access to all toll roads across the country.
The proposal is currently in its final stages of discussion with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. Besides that, the government is also exploring ways to lower the toll rate per km to further benefit highway users.
