- The new FASTag scheme introduces a nationwide toll pass costing Rs 3,000 annually or 200 trips.
- Mumbai-Pune Expressway and some other state highways in Maharashtra might choose not to join, which could affect NHAI’s toll revenue.
- Monthly toll collections differ widely: Mumbai-Pune Expressway earns Rs 120 crore; Samruddhi Highway Rs 90 crore.
New FASTag scheme is designed to make toll payments easier across national highways with a single pass option. This scheme, launched across the country, offers a pricing plan made to help frequent travelers with an annual fee or a trip limit. Keywords related to this include FASTag, toll collection, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and Maharashtra highways.
Understanding the New FASTag Scheme
The government has introduced one nationwide FASTag pass for all national highways. You can now buy this pass for a fixed price of Rs 3,000, which covers up to 200 toll trips a year. This new policy is meant to encourage cashless and hassle-free travel across the country’s large road network. If you travel often, the scheme offers convenience and possible savings. However, the trip limit and upfront cost mean occasional drivers might not benefit much.
Impact on National Highways Toll Collections
Starting August 15, NHAI expects toll revenues may go down because of this new FASTag pass. Even though more travelers might use national highways due to predictable costs, the Rs 3,000 annual pass will limit how much toll income comes from each commuter. For example, Mumbai-Pune Expressway currently makes about Rs 120 crore every month. If many commuters switch to the pass, monthly toll collections for NHAI might drop.
Role of State Highways in Toll Revenue Changes
Some important state highways like the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the Samruddhi Mahamarg are thinking about not joining the new FASTag scheme. Since these highways are managed by state authorities, they have strong monthly toll collections and may keep their current toll system. This could help them keep or even increase their toll income, while pulling traffic away from other older or national highways that use the FASTag policy.
Comparing Toll Revenues Across Major Highways in Maharashtra
| Highway | Monthly Toll Revenue (Rs crore) |
|---|---|
| Samruddhi Highway | 90 |
| Mumbai-Pune Expressway | 120 |
| Pune-Bengaluru Highway | 61 |
| Old Mumbai-Nashik Highway | 48 |
| Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway | 32 |
This table clearly shows how dominant the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Samruddhi Highway are in Maharashtra’s toll revenues. If these roads stay outside the FASTag scheme, traffic might move away from other state and national highways. This could change how toll revenue is shared across the region.
In summary, while the new FASTag scheme brings easier travel and potential cost savings for many, it also brings changes that could reshape toll revenue patterns, especially between national and state highways in Maharashtra. Staying updated on these changes will help you plan your trips and toll expenses better.