In a very huge alteration of the current FASTag context for highway toll collection in India, a new GPS-based toll collection system will go live starting May 1, 2025, replacing FASTag and ensuring completely seamless travel for the commuter.
FASTag is about to go, and GPS Tolling is going to arrive
Fastag has been an award-winning toll payment solution for many Indian commuters over the years by allowing the facility of cashless toll payment and avoiding toll congestion at toll plazas.
The system was introduced in 2016 and works using RFID technology, which scans tags placed on vehicle windshields to automatically deduct the toll due. However, due to several reasons, including scanning failure, traffic jams, and misuse, a better alternative was being sought by the authorities.
Here’s how the New GPS-Based Toll System Works
Under the new system:
- An On-Board Unit (OBU) will be mounted in your vehicle.
- GPS technology will keep track of the exact distance you cover on the highway.
- Based on the distance to be travelled, toll fees will be automatically debited from your linked bank account or digital wallet.
- Forget about holding up at toll plazas; enjoy uninterrupted travelling.
Advantages of the GPS Toll System
- Pay Only for What You Use
You will pay for only the kilometers you travel, unlike the current system of charging a toll for the entire stretch. - No More Traffic Jams at Toll Plazas
Without physical toll booths, time consumed as well as fuel shall be saved due to a decrease in traffic congestion. - Reduced Errors and Fraud
Having human intervention drastically cuts down errors or evasions of the kind in tools. - Environmentally Friendly Travel
Idle vehicles idling less contribute to fewer emissions and thus provide the environment with a greener future.
Implementation Timeline and Process
The government would introduce the new system into the implementation plan phase-wise:
- Phase One: (2025): Commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses will now have OBUs installed.
- Phase Two: Private cars and other vehicles will begin to use the new technology.
What About Data Privacy?
Concerns regarding GPS tracking and data privacy have been answered because the system will only be run on India’s own NavIC satellite network, which means that the data will remain within India.