Govt to end toll plaza stops in 2026, AI-based system to cut costs

India will roll out seamless, barrier-free tolling on national highways from 2026 using AI-based number plate recognition and FASTag technology. Vehicles will no longer stop at toll plazas, cutting congestion and fuel wastage. Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said tolling costs may drop from 15% to 3%, unlocking annual savings of up to ₹8,000 crore.