In a major move to simplify and reduce the cost of highway travel for private vehicle owners, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday announced a new FASTag-based Annual Pass scheme, set to roll out nationwide from August 15, 2025.

Highlighting the key benefits of the new scheme, Gadkari said: “The decision made by the government will enable people to travel on a very large scale. Earlier, people had to pay a toll of at least ₹10,000. Now, the new pass costs only ₹3,000, allowing for a validity of 200 trips annually.”

Explaining the model, the minister noted that one trip refers to crossing one toll plaza, meaning that 200 toll crossings are permitted under this pass.

“The advantage is that 200 tolls will be crossed, resulting in an average cost of ₹15 per toll crossing. This means people will save ₹7,000 every year,” Gadkari added.

The scheme is part of the government’s broader effort to modernize toll collection and minimize traffic delays.

“With the introduction of our new system, the need to stop at toll plazas will be eliminated. Those who were previously stopping will benefit from this scheme,” the minister said.

The Annual FASTag Pass will be applicable exclusively on National Highways, ensuring that long-distance travelers, daily commuters, and logistics operators can enjoy seamless movement while also saving on toll expenses.

Gadkari emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to reducing road congestion, improving digital infrastructure, and making national highways more commuter-friendly.