- The government plans to reduce toll exemptions for certain vehicles on national highways
- Vehicles of senior central and state government officials may lose toll exemption privileges
- A high-level committee recommended amending rules to phase out toll exemptions gradually
The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) currently provides toll exemptions for certain vehicles. However, the central government plans to reduce the number of vehicles eligible for these exemptions. According to reports, vehicles associated with senior officials from the central and state governments may no longer qualify for toll exemptions. This decision is based on recommendations made by a high-level committee reviewing the existing exemption system.
As per the TOI's report, the discussions on the proposal are underway. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been suggested by a high-level committee to amend the National Highway fee rules by eliminating the exempted category. If implemented, the exemptions will be reduced in phases to avoid making an immediate major change. It will ultimately reduce the number of vehicles that are allowed to pass through toll plazas without paying the fees.
Also Read: 2026 Mini Countryman C To Launch In India On June 17
Who Will Not Get Toll Exemption?
The report also suggests that the vehicles used by government officers will likely be the first category to be excluded from the exempted vehicle list. If implemented, the move will also curb the VIP culture, which is considered to be problematic for citizens. Making a move in that direction, the government has already begun efforts to encourage various departments and state governments to use the FASTag Annual Pass instead of seeking toll exemption.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Records Highest-Ever Monthly Sales In May 2026, Sells 2.42 Lakh Units
FASTag Annual Pass
The FASTag Annual Pass is a prepaid toll plan that covers the user's 1 year of travel or 200 toll crossings across the nation. Currently, it comes at an annual cost of Rs 3,075. It recently received an upward revision in fees of Rs 75 over the previous cost of Rs 3,000.
Exempted Vehicles
Currently, vehicles that transport and accompany individuals occupying 25 public positions do not have to pay toll fees on national highways. Furthermore, vehicles designated for official use by uniformed defense personnel, central and state armed forces, paramilitary groups, executive magistrates, fire departments, highway inspection teams, ambulances, and funeral vehicles are also exempt from toll charges.
Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world
