The Government has notified an amendment to the National Highways Fee Rules, 2026, to strengthen toll compliance on National Highways. The revised framework aims to improve transparency in toll operations, support digital enforcement, and create a structured mechanism for recovery of unpaid user fee. It is also intended to provide legal and financial safeguards for the toll collection system.
Key Features of the Amendment
- The National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2026 introduce a formal recovery mechanism for unpaid user fee.
- The rules seek to make toll collection more efficient and transparent.
- The amendment supports a barrier-free and technology-driven tolling ecosystem.
Electronic Notice System
- A technology-based Electronic Notice, or e-notice, system has been introduced.
- Electronic notices will be issued to registered vehicle owners.
- Each notice will include vehicle details, date and location of passage, and the amount payable.
- Notices may be served through SMS, email, mobile applications, or other electronic means.
- They will also be available on a designated online portal.
Database Integration and Grievance Redressal
- The rules provide for integration of the National Electronic Toll Collection system with the VAHAN database.
- This will help in seamless identification of vehicles and enforcement of unpaid dues.
- An aggrieved vehicle owner or driver may submit a representation through the portal within 72 hours of issuance of the e-notice.
- The grievance mechanism is designed to support fair and accountable enforcement.
Significance for Toll Governance
- The amendment is expected to boost investor confidence in toll infrastructure.
- It strengthens compliance and reduces leakages in user fee collection.
- The move reflects a broader shift towards digital governance in transport infrastructure.
- It supports the transition to a modern national tolling framework.