AI-based toll collection coming to highways by 2026

Auto Dec 17, 2025

Big update for road trips: By 2026, national highways will switch to an AI-powered toll system.
Announced by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, this setup uses number plate recognition so cars can cruise through toll plazas at up to 80km/h—no more stopping or waiting in line.

What else to know:

The new system is expected to save about ₹1,500 crore in fuel and boost government revenue by ₹6,000 crore.
It's also designed to cut down on toll theft and make things more transparent.
Just a heads-up: this upgrade is only for national highways—not state highways or city roads (at least for now).