New Toll Tax Relief for Residents Within 20km Radius
Toll Tax Exemption for Local Residents
Under new regulations regarding toll plazas, vehicle owners residing within a 20-kilometer radius will now enjoy significant relief. With the government's latest initiative, these individuals will no longer need to pay toll fees each time they pass through; instead, they can obtain a monthly pass for just ₹340, allowing unlimited crossings. This benefit is exclusively available for private non-commercial vehicles.
Relief from the 'Pay as You Go' Policy
In September 2024, the government introduced the 'Pay as You Go' policy, which stipulates that toll charges will be based on the distance traveled. As part of this initiative, residents living within 20 kilometers of a toll plaza can now travel toll-free. This policy was piloted on select national highways starting July 2024, utilizing a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for location tracking.
Monthly Toll Pass for ₹340
If your residence falls within the 20-kilometer radius of a toll plaza, you can acquire a monthly toll pass for ₹340, enabling you to cross the toll as many times as needed without incurring additional charges. This pass ensures that no extra fees are deducted from your FASTag, eliminating the hassle of repeated toll deductions.
This facility is particularly advantageous for those who frequently cross tolls for work or other essential activities. The pass will be valid for one month and must be renewed periodically.
Documents Required for Pass Application
To apply for the monthly toll pass, you will need several documents, including proof of residence (such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, or utility bill), the vehicle's registration certificate (RC), a passport-sized photo (if required), and a valid FASTag account.
You must visit the administrative office of the relevant toll plaza with these documents, where you will receive an application form for the local resident pass. After filling out the form, submit it along with the ₹340 fee (which can be paid in cash, by card, or through digital payment).
Application and Pass Issuance Process
Once you submit the application form and documents, the toll plaza officials will verify your paperwork. If everything is in order, your FASTag will either be updated directly, or you will receive a physical pass, depending on the toll plaza's system.
This pass will only be valid at the toll plaza from which it was issued and cannot be used at other tolls. If you change your address or vehicle, you must promptly inform the toll administration to update their records.
Commercial Vehicles Excluded from the Scheme
This new initiative is exclusively for private non-commercial vehicles. Commercial vehicles or those registered outside the 20-kilometer radius of the toll plaza will not be eligible for the ₹340 pass. Therefore, only local residents can benefit from this scheme.
A Significant Opportunity for Local Commuters
This government initiative not only offers financial benefits but also reduces the time and stress for daily commuters. It alleviates the inconvenience of repeated FASTag deductions and simplifies travel under a transparent system.
Renewing this pass every month is mandatory to keep your identity and vehicle information up to date. The process is quick, and once your documents are verified, it becomes quite straightforward.