In a bid to streamline toll collection and reduce traffic congestion, the Maharashtra Cabinet has announced that Fastag will be mandatory for all vehicles in the state starting April 1. This new policy will extend the existing electronic toll system, previously applied to national highways, to 22 state-run highways. Motorists will be required to use Fastag for toll payments on highways managed by the Public Works Department and Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation.

The move aims to improve transparency and efficiency in toll collection. Additionally, Fastag service providers will now be required to verify vehicle data with the national VAHAN registry. Motorists without a Fastag will incur double toll charges if they choose alternative payment methods. This upgrade is part of the state government's effort to make toll systems more modern and convenient for commuters.

Fastag, a cashless toll system, uses RFID technology to deduct toll fees automatically, eliminating stops at plazas. The government will update its Public-Private Partnership Policy to align with this change, ensuring smoother transitions across state highways.