Digital tolling begins at key entry points in Himachal

The State Taxes and Excise Department (STED) has initiated the rollout of FASTag-enabled toll collection at select inter-state entry points to streamline traffic flow and eliminate long queues that have long plagued commuters, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The digital payment system has been introduced at prominent barriers including Parwanoo, Mehatpur and Swarghat in Bilaspur district.

Parwanoo, a major gateway into the state, has frequently witnessed traffic snarls due to limited space and heavy vehicular inflow. Manual toll payments often resulted in extended waiting times, creating chaos and inconvenience for both residents and tourists. With FASTag integration, vehicles can now pass through designated lanes without halting for cash transactions, promising smoother and quicker transit.

To align with national standards, STED has synchronised its vehicle classification system with that of the National Highways Authority of India to enable seamless software adoption. As part of this restructuring, vehicle categories have been expanded from six to eight. The revised classification includes light motor vehicles, a combined category for light commercial vehicles, light goods vehicles and mini buses; buses and trucks up to two axles; commercial vehicles up to three axles; heavy construction and earth-moving machinery; oversized vehicles; tractors and motor rickshaws and scooters.

The new toll rates, effective April 1, will range between Rs 30 and Rs 900 depending on vehicle type. Previously, six broad categories — including heavy vehicles, small goods vehicles and passenger vehicles of varying capacities — attracted toll charges ranging from Rs 70 to Rs 720.

Of the 55 inter-state toll barriers across the state, six high-traffic locations have been identified for FASTag implementation during the 2026–27 financial year. These include Govindghat in Sirmaur district, Kandwal in Nurpur revenue district, Mehatpur in Una, Baddi, Parwanoo (main), Tipra Bypass in Solan and Garamaura in Bilaspur district. Officials indicated that the system would be extended to remaining barriers in a phased manner.

Under the revised toll policy, lessees responsible for toll collection must ensure FASTag facilities are fully operational by April 15. Failure to comply will attract a penalty of Rs 10,000 per day. Authorities expect the move to significantly reduce congestion and improve commuter convenience.

Additionally, frequent travellers passing through the same toll barrier within 24 hours can obtain a manual or e-receipt via SMS from the designated portal upon request to toll operators, offering added flexibility and transparency.