The National Highways Authority of India has proposed a complete shift to cashless toll collection at 1,150 toll plazas from April one, with electronic payments to become the default mode across national highways. The initiative forms part of an administrative push to digitise toll operations and to reduce direct cash handling at collection points, and the proposal sets a firm target date for transition.

Under the plan, motorists will be required to use electronic toll tags and other digital payment methods for passage through plazas, with electronic transactions expected to expedite vehicle movement and reduce queues. Officials expect operational gains from reduced cash handling and improved revenue tracking, and they envisage smoother traffic flow during peak periods as a result of reduced transaction times.

Implementation will involve coordination between toll operators, banks and highway authorities to ensure system readiness and interoperability of payment systems. Authorities plan to provide on-site assistance at plazas during the initial phase to help motorists adapt to the new regime, and contingency arrangements for network disruptions and dispute resolution mechanisms are to be part of operational planning to maintain uninterrupted toll collection.

Stakeholders have been urged to intensify awareness efforts so that vehicle owners obtain necessary digital instruments in advance of the deadline. The shift to cashless collection aligns with broader government objectives to modernise infrastructure and encourage digital payments across public services. The NHAI has set April one as the target date for full implementation and has called for strict compliance thereafter. Motorists are advised to ensure that their electronic payment instruments are active and properly linked to avoid delays.