Centre Mulls Special FASTags For Toll-Exempt Vehicles Under AI-Based Highway Tolling

Under the proposed framework, vehicles that are legally exempt from tolls such as those of certain dignitaries, emergency services and specific government categories  would be issued distinct FASTags mapped to their exemption status. These tags would be recognised by AI-enabled tolling systems using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and other sensors, allowing seamless passage without manual intervention or disputes at toll plazas.  

How AI Tolling And Special Tags Will Work  

In the AI-based system, cameras and sensors identify the vehicle, read the FASTag and instantly determine whether toll is payable or exempt. Special FASTags will help the backend system differentiate between regular users and exempt classes, reducing revenue leakages and the need for on-ground verification. This is expected to be particularly important once barrier-free, gantry-style tolling becomes more widespread.  

Focus On Compliance And Convenience  

The Centre’s plan also targets improved compliance by tightening checks on fake exemptions and unauthorised use of exempt status. For genuine toll-exempt vehicles, the new tags should reduce congestion, cut waiting time and give authorities a clear digital audit trail of movements on national highways.  

Key Highlights  

• Centre plans special FASTags for legally toll-exempt vehicle categories  
• Tags will integrate with AI-based tolling using cameras and ANPR systems  
• Objective is to streamline exemptions and curb misuse at national highway toll points  
• Barrier-free, gantry-style tolling will rely heavily on accurate digital classification  
• Proposal aims to combine user convenience with better toll revenue protection  

Sources: Economic Times, national infrastructure policy coverage, and official tolling/FASTag framework documents