Fact Check: Nitin Gadkari Debunks Fake News Of Toll Charges For Two-Wheelers

Updated: Thursday, June 26, 2025, 16:09 [IST]

Amidst growing speculation, the Government of India has clarified that there are no plans to introduce toll charges for two-wheelers starting July 15. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has labelled such reports as "baseless" and confirmed that no proposal is being considered.

The NHAI has debunked claims suggesting that two-wheelers will need FASTag for toll payments at highway entry points. On Thursday, NHAI released a statement via social media platform X, stating, "Some sections of the media have reported that the Government of India plans to levy user fees on two-wheelers. NHAI would like to clarify that no such proposal is under consideration. There are no plans to introduce toll charges for two-wheelers."

Government's Stance on FASTag for Two-Wheelers

Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari also addressed these rumours. He posted on the social media platform X, stating, "Some media houses are spreading misleading news about imposing toll tax on two-wheeler vehicles. No such decision has been proposed. The exemption on toll for two-wheeler vehicles will continue fully. Spreading misleading news without verifying the truth to create a sensation is not a sign of healthy journalism. I condemn this."

Currently, motorcycles and scooters remain exempt from tolls on most national and state highways in India. This policy aims to keep commuting affordable for lower-income groups and reduce traffic congestion at toll booths.

No Official Notification or Policy Change

Despite viral news articles suggesting otherwise, there is no official gazette notification or draft amendment indicating any change in this policy. Any alteration in toll rules must be publicly announced through a notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and published in the official Gazette of India.

Several reports had claimed that from July 15, the government might start charging toll fees for two-wheelers and require riders to install FASTags on their vehicles. These claims were driven by discussions about creating a unified tolling system and improving revenue collection for highway infrastructure.

Clarification on Future Tolling Plans

As it stands today: Two-wheelers remain exempt from FASTag tolling requirements. There is no mandatory FASTag requirement for motorcycles or scooters on national highways. Any future changes involving toll rules or FASTag usage would need gazette publication and public notification, none of which have occurred.

The ongoing speculation sparked concern among riders across the country due to misleading headlines suggesting mandatory FASTag implementation for two-wheelers by mid-July 2025. Commuters are advised to rely on verified government sources and disregard misinformation circulating online. The current policy allows two-wheeler riders to enjoy toll-free travel, with the FASTag free pass remaining intact.