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India Sets 2026 Deadline for Barrier-Free Highway Tolling Using AI and Satellite Tech

The minister reported 40 lakh annual FASTag passes since August, signalling momentum in the shift.

Overview

  • New Delhi says multi-lane free flow tolling and AI-driven highway management will be deployed across national highways by end-2026, covering 1,050 plazas.
  • Vehicles are expected to pass toll points at up to 80 km/h with a goal of zero waiting time at plazas.
  • The system combines ANPR-based number plate recognition, AI analytics, GNSS satellite tracking and FASTag integration to enable barrier-less, distance-based billing and real-time oversight.
  • The ministry projects about Rs 1,500 crore in annual fuel savings and roughly Rs 6,000 crore more in toll revenue, with a sharp reduction in leakage.
  • Implementation is phased and pilot-led on corridors such as Delhi–Meerut and BengaluruMysuru, with planned Motor Vehicles Act amendments for dues recovery and penalties and a two-year debarment policy for underperforming contractors.