Starting April 1, 2025, all motorists in Mumbai will have to pay tolls through FASTag at all plazas. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has implemented a FASTag-only system across all its toll plazas. The prime motive of this move is to streamline toll payments and reduce traffic congestion at toll booths.
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Penalty
The shift to a digital toll payment system is expected to speed up the toll transaction process. It will help long queues and the delays associated with manual toll collection. Those without a FASTag will have to face a penalty which means they’ll have to pay double the toll amount, regardless of whether they attempt to pay through cash, credit/debit cards, or UPI.
This policy is part of a broader initiative by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), which aim to foster digital payments and phase out manual toll collection across India. A government notice has already been issued confirming the mandatory use of FASTag at MSRDC toll plazas. The new policy is designed not only to enhance operational efficiency but also to align with the government’s ongoing efforts to encourage cashless transactions in various sectors.
Exceptions
The rule is not applicable on school buses, light motor vehicles, and State Transport buses. These kinds of vehicles will not have to use FASTag at five key entry points into Mumbai, including toll plazas at Mulund West, Mulund East, Airoli, Dahisar, and Vashi. However, for major highways such as the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, and the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Expressway, the FASTag system will be strictly enforced.
Challenges
The policy was challenged in court by those concerned about the difficulties of transitioning to a digital payment system. However, the Bombay High Court upheld the FASTag mandate, ruling that it does not violate the rights of vehicle owners. In its ruling, the court rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) that argued the policy could be unfair to those not accustomed to digital payments.
By promoting digital payments, the MSRDC aims to reduce congestion, improve toll plaza efficiency, and create a smoother journey for all motorists.