The central government is considering reducing the list of vehicles exempted from paying tolls on national highways, with vehicles used by senior central and state government officers likely to be the first to lose this privilege, as per sources familiar with the matter.
Committee Recommends Overhaul
A high-level committee appointed by the central government has recommended that the road transport ministry amend the National Highways Fee Rules to eliminate the exempted category entirely. The proposal is currently under discussion with various stakeholders, and officials indicate that the exemption list may be reduced in a phased manner.
Ending VIP Culture
“The proposal to begin this exercise with government officers is under active consideration. There is a focus on doing away with VIP culture as this doesn’t sit well with common citizens,” said a person aware of the development. The road transport ministry has written to different government entities and states, urging them to encourage their employees to purchase a FASTag Annual Pass instead of seeking exemption. “They can devise a mechanism to reimburse the amount for the FASTag Annual Pass, which is much less than reimbursement of mobile phone bills. Discussions are also on with defence forces,” an official added.
Current Exemptions
Currently, vehicles transporting or accompanying individuals holding 25 public offices are exempt from paying toll. Additionally, vehicles used for official purposes by defence personnel, central and state armed forces in uniform (including paramilitary forces), executive magistrates, fire fighting departments, highway project inspections, and emergency services (ambulances, funeral vans) are also exempt.
Exempted FASTags
Exempted FASTags are issued by the Indian Highway Management Company Limited (IHMCL) under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to vehicles legally exempt from toll charges. Even though these vehicles do not pay tolls, they must still affix a valid Exempted FASTag.
FASTag Annual Pass as Alternative
Sources privy to the deliberations said that with the rollout of the FASTag Annual Pass, individuals can now purchase it online and get the amount reimbursed from their respective department. The Rs 3,075 annual pass allows a vehicle to cross 200 toll plazas, costing a little over Rs 15 per plaza, and can be renewed multiple times in a year.
