There is currently no decision on the launch of satellite-based charges nationwide on May 1: Morth

Views of Tollgate in Lakshmipuram, Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. File | Image source: V. Raju

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) for Road Transport and Highways (April 18, 2025) clarified that there was no decision to implement nationwide satellite tolls starting from May 1.

The ministry’s response was reported in some media sections that it would launch a satellite-based power-on system starting from May 1 this year and would replace the existing FASTAG-based collection system.

In order to make vehicles seamless through the toll plaza, move without obstacles and reduce travel time, the Ministry said in a statement that the “Automatic Digital Recognition (ANPR) Fastag-based accessibility system” will be implemented on selected Toll Plazas.

According to the statement, the advanced toll system will incorporate ANPR technology, which will identify vehicles by reading its digital board and using radio frequency identification (RFID) for tolls.

Under this, the vehicle will be charged through the high-performance ANPR camera and the identity of the Fastag readers without parking in the toll plaza.

If not complying, electronic notice will be provided to violators, which may result in a suspension of Fastag and other Vahan-related fines.