MoRTH enforces updated FASTag based overload fees

The streamline fee for overloaded vehicles has been updated, notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The amendment was notified to the National Highways Fee Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026 with regards to strengthening the fee collection and ensuring its enforcement through digital systems like FASTag.

As per the information, the amended rules will come into effect by April,15th 2026. A modified framework has been introduced under Rule 10 as an assessment fee on the vehicles carrying heavy leads and with an exceeded permitted Gross Vehicle Weight.

The key changes that have been included in the newly introduced rules are the revised fee structure for the overload transportation, overloading assessment procedure and collection and enforcement mechanism.

In particular, the vehicles with heavier load beyond the mentioned limit will be charged on the percentage of overloading. For instance, the vehicles with up to 10% excess load will be charged with zero overload fee, however any mover with the load over 10% to 40%, will be charged 2 times of the base rate. Similarly, weight above 40% will be responsible to pay 4 times of the base rate.

The overloading assessment will be evaluated through certified weight measurement devices that are commonly installed at fee plazas. Plazas with no scientific measurement facilities will not be levied to pay any overload fees. The rules also mandate fee collection via digital mode, that is through FASTags only. Any vehicle entering National Highways without a valid FASTag will be sidelined according to the provisions under existing rules.

Mandatory reporting is another highlight where details of the overloaded vehicles will be noted and communicated to the National Vehicle Register (VAHAN).

Even though the rules are introduced by the government, their applicability varies as the provisions will not apply to specific private investment projects that are commenced prior to the new rules implementation, unless concessionaires agree to adopt the revised rules.

These changes are expected to advance compliance, avoid road damage due to overloaded vehicles and to ensure safer and efficient movement of goods across National Highways.