Gadkari’s ₹3,000 FASTag Pass: Seamless Highway Travel for Private Vehicles

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari unveiled a revolutionary ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass, set to transform highway travel in India from August 15, 2025. Announced during a press briefing in New Delhi, this initiative targets owners of non-commercial private vehicles, such as cars, jeeps, and vans, offering unlimited access to national highways for one year or up to 200 trips. This cost-effective measure aims to eliminate toll-related stress, reduce congestion, and enhance travel affordability for millions of Indians.

How the Pass Works

The ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass integrates seamlessly with the existing FASTag system, requiring no additional hardware. Vehicle owners can purchase the pass through the My FASTag app, net banking, or authorized toll plazas starting July 15, 2025. Linked to the vehicle’s registration number, the pass allows barrier-free travel across National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) toll plazas, with deductions tracked digitally. Valid for 12 months or 200 trips (whichever comes first), it excludes state highways and commercial vehicles like taxis or buses. This user-friendly design ensures hassle-free journeys for frequent commuters.

Who Benefits Most

The pass is a boon for middle-class families, professionals, and small business owners who frequently travel intercity routes. For instance, a Delhi-Mumbai round trip, typically costing ₹2,400 in tolls, becomes significantly cheaper under the annual pass. Residents of cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Lucknow, with heavy highway usage, stand to save thousands annually. The initiative also promotes tourism by making road trips to destinations like Jaipur or Goa more affordable, while reducing wait times at toll booths enhances travel efficiency.

A Vision for Connectivity

Gadkari’s announcement aligns with India’s push for world-class infrastructure, complementing the NHAI’s 98% FASTag adoption rate. By capping toll expenses, the pass addresses public concerns about rising travel costs while supporting digital toll collection. As India’s highway network expands, this ₹3,000 pass promises to make road travel seamless, fostering economic mobility and reinforcing Gadkari’s commitment to commuter-friendly policies.