VIP FASTags: The “VIP culture” prevalent at toll plazas is soon coming to an end, and the government has made rigorous preparations to ensure this. Now, just like the general public, VIPs too will be required to pay tolls via FASTag.

During journeys, long queues at toll plazas are a frequent occurrence, often causing frustration. Conversely, there are individuals who—by citing their VIP status—breeze through the plazas quickly without paying any toll. However, this practice will no longer be possible, as the government has formulated a plan to eradicate VIP culture at toll plazas. Taking a decisive step in this direction, the government has put an end to the practice of vehicles fitted with black or blue beacons crossing toll plazas free of charge.

Ban Imposed on Vehicles with Red or Blue Beacons

Recently, the government launched this initiative to eliminate VIP culture on National Highways (at toll plazas). Under this move, the government has revoked the privilege of crossing toll plazas for free by displaying official government ID cards or driving vehicles fitted with red or blue beacons. Consequently, even if you own a vehicle equipped with a red or blue beacon, you will no longer be able to use it to bypass toll payments. You will be required to pay the prescribed toll fee.

Fake VIP FASTags to be Blocked

In the next phase of this government initiative, preparations are underway to blocklist VIP FASTags that have been fraudulently obtained in the names of Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), or government officials. According to official reports, the number of “exempted” FASTags currently in circulation exceeds the total number of legitimately issued FASTags by 30 percent. This discrepancy is resulting in an annual revenue loss of ₹500 crore.

What Did the Ministry State?

Speaking to the media regarding this matter, a senior official from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways explained that the department has developed a centralized dashboard. This dashboard will consolidate data from across the country and is being linked with Aadhaar and service records. This integration will ensure that the exempted FASTags belonging to individuals who no longer hold their official positions—or who are otherwise ineligible for such exemptions—can be immediately added to the blocklist. Furthermore, in an effort to enhance the transparency of the toll collection system, the government has made it mandatory for all banks issuing FASTags to verify the registration numbers of vehicles. This decision was taken in light of rising complaints regarding discrepancies found in FASTag reader plates. The Ministry’s guidelines also stipulate that if a senior government official is found traveling in a private vehicle—distinguished by a white license plate—while displaying a government tag with a blue strip, they will not only be required to pay the toll but a report regarding the incident will also be forwarded to their respective department.