FASTag: NHAI Mandates Clear Signage for Toll Discounts to Boost Transparency

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is rolling out a new directive for its field offices to significantly boost transparency and improve the experience for highway users. This initiative, by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), aims to ensure that drivers are fully aware of available discounted travel options.

Clear Signage for Concessional Passes

To achieve this goal, NHAI directs the booths to display boards of FASTags with discounts in multiple languages at all toll plazas. These signs must clearly detail the existence, pricing, and application process for both the Local Monthly Pass and the Annual Pass.

These new signboards will be strategically placed at high-visibility locations, such as toll approaches, customer service centers, and entry/exit points. The information will be presented in English, Hindi, and the local regional language. NHAI has given its field teams a 30-day deadline to complete the installation and guarantee that the signage is illuminated and visible at all times, day or night.

For those who prefer digital access, the exact same information will also be published on the Rajmargyatra mobile application and the official NHAI project websites.

Pass Details: Saving Money on the Road

The drive is focused on informing travelers about two key concessional passes:

Local Monthly Pass: Designed for frequent local commuters, this pass grants unlimited trips for private vehicles within a 20-kilometre radius of a specific toll plaza. To obtain it, applicants must visit the helpdesk and present their Aadhaar card, vehicle registration certificate, and proof of residence for verification.

Annual Pass: Catering to drivers who travel long distances regularly, this option is available for a one-time fee of 3,000. It allows for one year or up to 200 crossings, whichever limit is reached first. This pass is easily purchased via the Rajmargyatra App and is digitally activated on the vehicle's FASTag. The Annual Pass offers extensive coverage across approximately 1,150 toll plazas on national highways and expressways across India.

In a statement, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways emphasized the initiative's core purpose:

"The prominent display of information regarding availability of 'Local Monthly Pass' and the 'Annual Pass' at the fee plazas underscores NHAI's commitment to improving user experience, making travel more economical and enhancing transparency in toll operations across the country."