MoRTH revises toll rules for overloaded vehicles; stricter penalty framework from April 15
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has notified amendments to National Highways fee rules, introducing a revised penalty structure for overloaded vehicles and mandating digital fee collection through FASTag.
The National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026, will come into effect from April 15.
Penalty slabs revised
Under the amended framework:
- Vehicles carrying up to 10% excess load will not attract any overload fee
- 10% to 40% overloading will be charged at 2 times the base toll rate
- Above 40% overloading will attract a penalty of 4 times the base rate
The fee will be calculated based on permissible Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).
Weighment-linked enforcement
The rules mandate that overloading will be determined using certified weighment systems installed at toll plazas.
In the absence of such facilities, no overload fee will be levied, providing clarity on enforcement.
Digital compliance push
Overloading charges will be collected only through FASTag, as part of the government’s push towards digital tolling.
Details of overloaded vehicles will be recorded in the VAHAN national vehicle registry, enabling monitoring and enforcement.
Vehicles entering National Highways without valid FASTag will continue to attract penalties under existing provisions.
Sector impact
The amendment aims to improve compliance with load norms, reduce road damage caused by overloading, and enhance highway safety.
For the logistics sector, the move introduces a clearer penalty framework while tightening enforcement through technology-led monitoring.
Applicability
The revised provisions will not apply to certain highway projects executed under earlier private concession agreements, unless operators choose to adopt the new rules.
Outlook
The changes mark a shift towards stricter enforcement of load limits backed by digital systems. Implementation at toll plazas and availability of weighment infrastructure will be key to ensuring effectiveness.
