new toll rules for overloaded vehicles fees increase with excess load | auto

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Road ministry revises toll rules for overloaded vehicles, links fees to excess load

The new framework mandates FASTag-based collection and weighbridge checks, with graded penalties for overloading to curb road damage and improve compliance from April 15, 2026.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on Tuesday notified amendments to streamline the levy and collection of fees on overloaded vehicles using national highways. The new rules will come into effect from April 15, 2026.The changes, introduced through the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026, revise the framework for charging vehicles that exceed permissible gross vehicle weight limits.Under the amended rules, fees for overloaded vehicles will be linked to the extent of excess load. Vehicles carrying up to 10 per cent excess load will not be charged an overload fee. Those exceeding this threshold by up to 40 per cent will be charged twice the base rate, while vehicles carrying more than 40 per cent excess load will pay four times the base rate.The rules mandate the use of certified weighment systems at toll plazas to determine overloading. In cases where such facilities are not available, no overload fee will be levied.

Digital collection and reporting

All overload fees will be collected through FASTag, making digital payment mandatory. Details of overloaded vehicles will also be recorded and reported to the national vehicle register, VAHAN.Vehicles entering national highways without a valid FASTag will continue to face penalties under existing provisions.The amended provisions will not automatically apply to certain pre-existing private concession projects unless operators opt in.The ministry said the changes aim to improve compliance with load norms, reduce damage to highway infrastructure and support safer freight movement.