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Starting April 1, motorists in Mumbai will have to pay tolls digitally as the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) moves to a FASTag-only system. This change is aimed at making toll payments faster and reducing long queues at toll booths. Those without FASTag will have to pay double the toll amount, even if they use cash, cards, or UPI for payment.
New Digital Toll System
The use of FASTag will now be compulsory at all toll plazas managed by MSRDC. This step is expected to speed up toll transactions and ease traffic congestion. A government official confirmed that a public notice has already been issued, making it clear that all motorists must use FASTag to pay tolls.
This move is part of a larger initiative by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to promote digital payments and reduce manual toll collection.
Which Vehicles Are Exempt?
While most vehicles must follow the new rule, some exceptions have been made. School buses, light motor vehicles, and State Transport buses will not be required to use FASTag at five key entry points into Mumbai. These include:
- Mulund West
- Mulund East
- Airoli
- Dahisar
- Vashi
However, the mandatory FASTag system will be enforced on major highways, including:
- Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- Old Mumbai-Pune Highway
- Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Expressway
Motorists using these routes should get a FASTag to avoid paying double the toll fee.
Legal Support for FASTag System
The decision to make FASTag mandatory was challenged in court, but the Bombay High Court ruled in favor of the policy. A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed, arguing that many people may struggle to switch to digital payments. However, the court, led by Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Bharati Dangre, dismissed the case. The judges ruled that the policy is not unfair and does not violate the rights of vehicle owners.
The transition to a FASTag-only toll payment system in Mumbai is a major step towards modernizing toll collection. By making digital payments compulsory, MSRDC aims to improve efficiency, reduce waiting times, and promote technology-driven solutions. With legal backing and government support, this new system is set to create a smoother travel experience for Mumbai's motorists.
