New pass priced at Rs 1,500 for plazas outside municipal limits, Rs 3,000 within town areas

 

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 27, 2026

The government has introduced an annual concessional local pass for eligible non-commercial vehicle owners residing within 20 km of National Highway fee plazas, with the facility set to come into effect from November 1, 2026.

Under the new provision, residents can avail the annual pass for Rs 1,500 at fee plazas located outside municipal or local town limits and Rs 3,000 at plazas situated within these limits, depending on the location of the plaza.

The initiative aims to make commuting more economical for local residents who frequently use National Highways and enhance the ease of living for people residing near toll plazas.

Eligible vehicle owners with a valid and functional FASTag can choose between the existing monthly pass and the new concessional local pass for travel through a specific fee plaza. The pass will be valid only for the designated plaza and will not be transferable to other toll points.

The facility, however, will not be available on National Highways and Expressways where toll collection follows a closed user-fee system. It will also not be issued at locations where a service road or an alternative road is available for commuters.

The annual local pass will be available at eligible toll plazas from November 1, 2026, while the facility will be accessible through the Rajmargyatra app from December 1, 2026.

The amendment has been notified through the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2026, under the powers conferred by the National Highways Act, 1956.

The Central Government may revise the concessional pass rates annually, with any revision taking effect from April 1.

With more than 13 crore FASTags issued across the country, the new provision is expected to offer an additional option to eligible residents living near fee plazas and help reduce their recurring commuting expenses.

The move forms part of the government's broader efforts to improve convenience for National Highway users while providing targeted relief to local commuters.