The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has announced significant changes to toll tax rules, effective from April 1, 2025. The FASTag system will be mandatory at all toll plazas in Mumbai, and vehicles without FASTags will have to pay double the toll fee. However, certain vehicles are exempted from the FASTag requirement.
Purpose of the Toll Rule Change
The implementation of the FASTag system aims to:
- Reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas.
- Provide a seamless and quick experience for commuters.
- Promote digital payments and reduce manual transactions.
- Ensure smoother toll collection and prevent revenue losses.
Vehicles Exempted from FASTag Requirement
According to MSRDC data, some vehicles entering Mumbai through five major toll plazas are exempted from the FASTag requirement. These include:
| Vehicle Type | Reason for Exemption |
|---|---|
| School Buses | Ensures safety and timely transport of children. |
| Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) | For specific passenger services. |
| State Transport Buses | Promotes public transport services. |
Toll Plazas Where FASTag Exemption Applies
The FASTag exemption applies at the following five major toll plazas in Mumbai:
| Toll Plaza Location |
|---|
| Mulund West |
| Mulund East |
| Airoli |
| Dahisar |
| Vashi |
FASTag Mandatory on Major Highways
While exemptions are granted at certain toll plazas, FASTag will remain mandatory on major highways, including:
- Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- Old Mumbai-Pune Highway
- Mumbai-Nagpur Prosperity Expressway
FASTag Balance and Blacklist Policy
To avoid penalties, FASTag users must ensure their accounts are recharged. Key points to note:
| Condition | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Insufficient FASTag balance | Vehicle may be blacklisted. |
| Non-recharge of FASTag | Toll payment will be denied. |
| Delayed recharge | Double toll payment may be required. |
Important User Guidelines
To comply with the new FASTag rules and avoid additional charges, vehicle owners should:
- Recharge FASTag accounts in advance to prevent blacklisting.
- Prioritize digital payments for seamless toll transactions.
- Avoid manual payments to reduce waiting time and congestion.
Conclusion
Starting April 1, 2025, Mumbai’s toll collection system will undergo a major transformation with the mandatory FASTag implementation. Only eligible vehicles will be exempted, while all others must use FASTag to avoid penalties. Users should maintain sufficient balance in their FASTag accounts to prevent additional fees and ensure smooth travel
