FASTag annual pass crosses 5 lakh users in 4 days of launch; Rajmargyatra app tops govt rankings

The newly launched FASTag annual pass has crossed the landmark figure of five lakh users within just four days of its rollout, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways said on Monday.

Introduced on August 15, the facility received an “overwhelming response” from commuters across the country, the ministry said in a statement.

Tamil Nadu accounted for the highest number of purchases, followed by Karnataka and Haryana. Maximum transactions through the annual pass at toll plazas were recorded in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

FASTag is a sticker with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology that allows toll payments from the linked prepaid account. It is affixed to the vehicle's windscreen and allows one to drive through toll plazas without making a cash transaction. The tag can be recharged or topped up as per the requirement.

The FASTag annual pass offers users a seamless and economical travel option on national highways. It is valid at about 1,150 toll plazas across the country and eliminates the need for frequent recharges through a one-time payment of ₹3,000.

The pass, available for all non-commercial vehicles, is valid for one year or 200 toll plaza crossings, whichever is earlier, and gets activated within two hours of payment through the Rajmargyatra app or the NHAI website.

"This policy addresses long-standing concerns regarding toll plazas located within a 60 km range and simplifies toll payments through a single, affordable transaction," Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said in June.

"By reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimizing disputes at toll plazas, the Annual Pass aims to deliver a faster and smoother travel experience for millions of private vehicle owners," he added.