NHAI to Eliminate Cash Toll Payments from April 2026, Move to FASTag/UPI
NHAI to Eliminate Cash Toll Payments from April 2026, Move to FASTag/UPI
NHAI plans to end cash toll payments from April 1, 2026, mandating FASTag or UPI at plazas to speed lanes and boost transparency.
New Delhi — The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is moving to phase out cash payments at toll plazas, with a rollout planned from April 1, 2026. From that date, tolls at all fee plazas across national highways and expressways are likely to accept only FASTag or Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments. The agency says the shift aims to speed up lane throughput, reduce congestion, and bring greater transparency to toll collection procedures. To date, FASTag handles about 98% of toll transactions, signaling strong uptake since its launch.
Under the National Highways Fee Rules, vehicles entering a toll plaza without a valid and functional FASTag face a higher charge if they pay by cash—twice the applicable user fee. If they opt for UPI, the user fee is charged at 1.25 times the rate for their vehicle category. The policy is designed to deter cash payments and encourage contactless, traceable transactions.
NHAI highlighted the growing popularity of FASTag annual passes, noting that more than 50 lakh subscribers have signed up for the pass that allows up to 200 toll crossings per year for ₹3,000. Since its launch on August 15, the passes have supported 26.55 crore toll transactions. There are over 1,150 fee plazas on National Highways and Expressways across the country, with a broad push toward cashless tolling.
The move comes amid ongoing efforts to ease commuting, curb congestion at busy plazas, and boost financial transparency in toll operations. While cash payments are being phased out, the policy includes penalties for non FASTag users and incentives for digital payments to encourage a smoother, faster toll experience for daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
Officials say the transition will be monitored closely, with adjustments considered based on feedback from toll plaza staff and highway users. As the date approaches, motorists are urged to ensure their FASTag is active and linked to their vehicle, and to be prepared for UPI payments where applicable.
