From April 10, no cash at tolls: Here’s how you’ll pay now

From April 10, 2026, highway travel in India is set for a decisive shift as the government enforces a fully digital toll collection system under G.S.R. 251(E). The latest amendment to the National Highways Fee Rules makes FASTag compulsory and removes cash payments entirely at toll plazas. While motorists will still have the option to pay through UPI, it will come at a cost—1.25 times the standard toll fee. Those who fail to comply with the prescribed payment methods could face stricter action, including penalties under existing rules and even double toll charges if dues remain unpaid.

The move, notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on April 2, aims to streamline toll operations, cut congestion, and push complete digitisation across national highways. However, for commuters unaware of the finer details, the new system could mean higher costs and unexpected disruptions.

Cash Ends At Toll Plazas: What changes from April 10?

The government has amended Rule 6 of the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008 through the Third Amendment Rules, 2026. The key change lies in sub-rule (3A), which clearly defines how vehicles without FASTag will be treated.

• Vehicles entering toll plazas without FASTag or with an inactive FASTag
• Allowed to pay via UPI only as an alternative
• Required to pay 1.25 times the applicable toll fee

If the toll fee is ₹100, a user paying via UPI without FASTag will pay ₹125. If the driver does not opt for the prescribed payment method, action will be taken under Rule 14.

Why cash payments are being removed?

The government’s push towards a cashless toll system is driven by efficiency and transparency.

Earlier challenges included:

• Long queues at toll plazas
• Delays due to manual cash handling
• Disputes over payments

With digital tolling:

• Vehicles move faster with minimal stoppage
• Transactions are automated and recorded
• Leakages and disputes are reduced

The policy aligns with broader digital infrastructure goals and aims to make highway travel smoother.

FASTag is now essential for every highway trip

Under the new rules, FASTag becomes essential for all highway users.

Without a valid FASTag:

• You will not get standard toll rates
• You will be pushed to higher-cost alternatives like UPI
• You may face enforcement action if you refuse compliant payment

The system is structured to ensure FASTag remains the cheapest and most seamless mode of payment.

UPI allowed, but at 25% higher cost

UPI has been retained only as a fallback option, not a primary payment method.

Here’s how the cost works:

• Standard toll: ₹100
• UPI payment (without FASTag): ₹125

This 1.25x multiplier is fixed under the rule, making UPI significantly more expensive for regular use.

What happens if you don’t follow the rules?

The notification makes it clear that non-compliance will invite action.

• Refusal to pay digitally can trigger proceedings under Rule 14
• Entry at toll plazas may be restricted
• Delayed payments could lead to additional penalties, including double toll

In simple terms, ignoring the system could cost far more than complying with it.

The impact on daily commuters and frequent travellers will be immediate:

• Travelling without FASTag will become costly
• Digital payment is no longer optional
• UPI is only a backup, not a viable regular option

For most users, keeping a functional FASTag will be the only practical way to avoid higher expenses and delays.

What you should do before April 10

To avoid disruption:

• Install and activate FASTag on your vehicle
• Maintain sufficient balance in your FASTag account
• Use UPI only in emergencies
• Ensure your FASTag is valid and functional before entering highways

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