New Delhi, April 18, 2025 – In a significant move to modernize highway travel, the Indian government is set to replace the existing FASTag system with a satellite-based toll collection mechanism starting May 1, 2025. This initiative aims to streamline toll payments, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall driving experience on national highways.​Sakshi Post+5English.Mathrubhumi+5https://www.oneindia.com/+5English.Mathrubhumi+2Insights on India+2Digit+2

What is the New Satellite-Based Toll System?

The upcoming system utilizes the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology to monitor vehicle movement. Unlike the FASTag system, which requires vehicles to pass through toll plazas for RFID-based scanning, the GNSS-based system calculates toll charges based on the exact distance traveled by a vehicle on tolled roads. This ensures a more accurate and fair toll collection process.​amanblogs.com+4India Today+4Trak.in+4Trak.in

Key Features and Benefits

• Distance-Based Charging: Toll fees will correspond directly to the kilometers traveled, promoting fairness and efficiency.​The Economic Times+3https://www.oneindia.com/+3MotorOctane+3

• Elimination of Toll Plazas: The need for physical toll booths will be phased out, reducing traffic bottlenecks and wait times.​Park+

• Automatic Deductions: Toll amounts will be seamlessly deducted from the vehicle owner's linked bank account or digital wallet, ensuring a contactless payment experience.​MotorOctane+2Trak.in+2https://www.oneindia.com/+2

• Enhanced Transparency: Real-time tracking and billing will provide commuters with detailed insights into their toll expenses.​

Implementation and Transition

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced that the new toll policy will be unveiled within the next 15 days. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has conducted successful pilot projects on select highways, paving the way for a nationwide rollout.​UP Excise Portal

To facilitate the transition, vehicles will be equipped with On-Board Units (OBUs) compatible with GNSS technology. These devices will track vehicle movement and communicate with satellite systems to calculate toll charges accurately.​The Times of India+1India Today+1

Addressing Privacy and Security Concerns

While the GNSS-based system offers numerous advantages, concerns regarding data privacy and security have been raised. The government assures that stringent measures will be implemented to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access.​

Conclusion

The shift to a satellite-based toll collection system marks a transformative step in India's transportation infrastructure. By leveraging advanced technology, the initiative promises to enhance efficiency, reduce travel time, and provide a more equitable tolling experience for all commuters.​NewsBytes+10The Economic Times+10NewsBytes+10Insights on India+4Sakshi Post+4https://www.oneindia.com/+4