GNSS Toll System : In a major overhaul of India’s toll collection system, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is preparing to phase out the existing FASTag system and replace it with a cutting-edge GNSS-based tolling solution. This move is part of the government’s plan to ensure seamless and contactless toll payments based on the actual distance traveled. If you’re a vehicle owner, it’s crucial to understand the upcoming changes, how the GNSS toll system works, and how to stay compliant to avoid hefty fines.
What is the GNSS Toll System?
The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) tolling model uses satellite technology to calculate toll charges based on how far a vehicle travels on a tolled road.
- GNSS eliminates the need for physical toll plazas.
- Tolls are automatically deducted based on GPS data.
- Distance-based tolling improves fairness and accuracy.
- It enables faster and more efficient traffic flow.
- Vehicles must be equipped with GNSS-enabled On-Board Units (OBUs).
- The system operates without needing vehicles to stop or slow down.
- All vehicle movements are tracked in real-time via satellites.
From May 1, GNSS Will Replace Fastag – How New Toll System Works, Charges & Benefits Explained
Why FASTag is Being Replaced?
The FASTag system, though widely accepted, has certain limitations that the government aims to overcome:
- Frequent congestion at toll booths despite RFID use.
- Dependency on toll plaza infrastructure.
- Limited ability to charge distance-based tolls.
- Manual intervention still required at many booths.
- Higher maintenance and operational costs.
- Lack of real-time traffic monitoring capabilities.
- Limited integration with future smart mobility solutions.
Benefits of GNSS-Based Tolling
Adopting the GNSS toll system offers a range of advantages for both the government and commuters:
- Toll charges based on actual distance traveled.
- Elimination of physical toll barriers.
- Reduced fuel consumption due to uninterrupted travel.
- Better traffic management with real-time monitoring.
- Increased transparency in toll calculations.
- Seamless movement of commercial and private vehicles.
- Compatible with national smart transport goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activate GNSS Toll System
Here’s a simple guide to get your vehicle GNSS-toll ready:
- Check GNSS OBU Compatibility
- Confirm if your vehicle model supports GNSS-enabled OBUs.
- Visit an Authorized OBU Provider
- Select a certified vendor approved by NHAI or MoRTH.
- Purchase and Install the GNSS Device
- Have the OBU professionally installed in your vehicle.
- Register with the GNSS Toll Portal
- Create an account using your vehicle details.
- Link Your Bank or Wallet
- Add a payment method for automatic toll deductions.
- Complete KYC Verification
- Upload required documents for identity and vehicle ownership.
- Activate the Device via App or Website
- Use the official app/portal to activate your toll services.
- Start Driving
- Tolls will now be deducted automatically based on your travel.
Comparison Table: FASTag vs GNSS Toll System
| Feature | FASTag System | GNSS Toll System |
|---|---|---|
| Toll Calculation Method | Fixed at each plaza | Based on distance traveled |
| Infrastructure Required | Toll plazas | None (satellite-based) |
| Stop & Pay | Yes, at toll booths | No, fully automatic |
| Hardware Needed | RFID Tag | GNSS-enabled OBU |
| Time Efficiency | Moderate | High (no stoppage) |
| Maintenance Cost | High (due to booths) | Low (cloud-managed) |
| Rollout Timeframe | Already in use | Phased rollout from mid-2025 |
| Ideal for | Short-distance, limited coverage | Nationwide, seamless travel |
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to shift from FASTag to GNSS tolling may result in heavy penalties and restrictions:
- Vehicles without GNSS OBUs will be considered non-compliant.
- Penalty charges may go up to ₹5,000 per violation.
- Possible ban from entering tolled expressways.
- Legal consequences under the Motor Vehicles Act.
- Vehicles may be detained for repeated offenses.
- Insurance claims could be delayed or denied.
- Commercial permits might not be renewed without compliance.
Timeline for Transition
| Phase | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | April–June 2025 | Pilot rollout on select expressways |
| Phase 2 | July–September 2025 | Expansion to all national highways |
| Phase 3 | October–December 2025 | Mandatory for all commercial vehicles |
| Phase 4 | January 2026 onwards | Full switch-over, FASTag deactivation begins |
How to Check GNSS Activation Status
To confirm if your GNSS OBU is active and functioning:
- Log into the GNSS Toll Portal.
- Enter your vehicle number and registration details.
- Check for live trip tracking and transaction history.
- You should receive SMS/email alerts after every toll deduction.
Tips to Avoid Penalties and Ensure Smooth Transition
- Act early before the last-minute rush begins.
- Ensure your payment method has sufficient balance.
- Regularly check OBU status and keep it in working condition.
- Avoid tampering or removing the GNSS device.
- Keep your registration and KYC documents updated.
The shift from FASTag to the GNSS toll system marks a transformative step in India’s journey toward a smarter, faster, and more efficient highway experience. With distance-based tolling and satellite-powered tracking, the new system ensures transparency, better traffic flow, and reduced environmental impact. Vehicle owners are advised to activate their GNSS devices promptly to avoid penalties and enjoy hassle-free travel across India’s national highways.
The information provided in this article is based on government releases and publicly available data as of April 2025. Users are advised to check the official MoRTH or NHAI portals for the latest updates and region-specific implementation guidelines.
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