New Delhi: Motorists across India may soon bid goodbye to long queues at toll plazas. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has announced that a fully barrier-free, AI-based toll collection system will be implemented across the country by 2026, allowing vehicles to pass toll plazas without slowing down or stopping.
Speaking during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, the Minister said the new technology-driven system will enable vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 80 kmph on highways and expressways while toll charges are automatically deducted. The move is aimed at replacing the current FASTag mechanism, which still requires vehicles to slow down or halt at toll plazas.
The upcoming system will use advanced artificial intelligence and digital monitoring to ensure seamless toll collection, significantly reducing congestion, saving travel time and improving fuel efficiency. By 2026, the system will be deployed at 1,050 toll plazas nationwide, including 350 privately operated toll booths, Gadkari said.
The Minister also highlighted the success of the annual FASTag pass, noting that around 40 lakh passes have been issued within four months since August. Priced at ₹3,000, the annual FASTag allows users to cross up to 200 toll plazas in a year, bringing down the average cost to just ₹15 per toll plaza and offering substantial savings to frequent travellers.
With the rollout of AI-based barrier-free tolling, India’s highway network is set to enter a new era of faster, smarter and hassle-free travel, marking a major leap in road transport efficiency and commuter convenience.
