Cash Toll Collection at NHAI Plazas May Be Completely Discontinued from April 1

New Delhi: Commuters travelling on national highways across India may soon have to rely entirely on digital payment modes at toll plazas. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is considering phasing out cash transactions nationwide to promote transparency, efficiency, and smoother traffic flow.

According to officials, preparations are underway to make toll payments fully digital at more than 1,150 toll plazas operated by the NHAI from April 1. If implemented, cash payments will be completely discontinued.

The move aims to reduce congestion, eliminate long queues, prevent disputes at toll booths, and ensure seamless vehicle movement. By shifting entirely to electronic payments, authorities expect to enhance operational transparency and minimize delays caused by cash handling.

98% Toll Payments Already Digital

Officials revealed that over 98 percent of toll payments on NHAI highways and expressways are currently made through FASTag. The RFID-enabled FASTag system allows automatic electronic deduction of toll charges, significantly reducing waiting time at toll plazas.

In addition to FASTag, UPI payment facilities have also been introduced at national highway toll plazas, offering commuters fast and convenient digital payment options.

Digital-Only Toll Policy Under Consideration

At present, vehicles entering toll plazas without an active FASTag are charged double the toll fee. The government is now considering removing this dual-penalty system and instead fully prioritizing digital payments by eliminating cash transactions altogether.

If the proposal is finalized, cash toll collection will officially come to an end from April 1, marking a major shift toward a fully digital highway toll ecosystem in India.