In a significant move to enhance road safety, infrastructure protection, and regulatory compliance, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has notified the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026. These revised rules, coming into effect from 15th April 2026, introduce a rationalized and transparent framework for charging fees on overloaded vehicles.
Objective: Safer Highways and Stronger Infrastructure
The amendment aims to address the persistent issue of vehicle overloading, which leads to:
- Premature road damage
- Increased maintenance costs
- Higher risk of accidents
By enforcing stricter fee norms and ensuring scientific measurement, the government seeks to promote compliance with permissible Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and improve the overall efficiency of freight movement.
Revised Fee Structure for Overloaded Vehicles
Under the amended rules, a graded penalty system has been introduced based on the extent of overloading:
- Up to 10% excess load: No overload fee
- More than 10% and up to 40%: Fee at 2 times the base rate
- Above 40%: Fee at 4 times the base rate
This structured approach ensures fairness and deterrence, encouraging transporters to adhere to prescribed load limits.
Scientific and Transparent Weight Measurement
A key highlight of the amendment is the emphasis on accurate and scientific weighment:
- Overloading will be determined using certified weight measurement devices installed at toll plazas.
- These systems ensure precision and transparency, reducing disputes and errors.
No Fee Without Weighment Facility
To maintain fairness, the rules clearly state:
- No overload fee will be charged if a weighment facility is not available at the fee plaza.
This provision protects transporters from arbitrary charges and ensures accountability.
Digital Payment Through FASTag
In line with India’s push towards digital toll collection, all overload fees will be collected exclusively through FASTag.
Additionally:
- Vehicles without valid FASTag will face penalties under existing norms.
- This move promotes cashless transactions, efficiency, and transparency.
Mandatory Reporting to VAHAN Database
The amendment introduces a robust monitoring mechanism:
- Details of overloaded vehicles will be recorded and reported to VAHAN.
This enables:
- Centralized tracking of violations
- Better enforcement and policy planning
Applicability and Exceptions
The revised rules will apply to most National Highway projects. However:
- Certain pre-existing private concession projects may be exempt unless they voluntarily adopt the new framework.
Clarity Through Illustrations
To ensure smooth implementation, the notification includes detailed illustrations explaining:
- Calculation of overload fees
- Application across different vehicle categories
This enhances transparency and ease of understanding for stakeholders.
Expected Impact of the Amendment
The new rules are expected to deliver multiple benefits:
- Improved compliance with load regulations
- Reduced road damage and maintenance costs
- Enhanced road safety
- Efficient and seamless freight movement
- Stronger digital monitoring and enforcement
By integrating technology such as weigh-in-motion (WIM) systems, the amendment aligns with India’s vision of modern, smart, and sustainable highway infrastructure.
Conclusion
The Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026 mark a progressive step towards disciplined and technology-driven highway management. By combining graded penalties, digital payments, and data-driven monitoring, the government is ensuring a more transparent, efficient, and safer transportation ecosystem across India’s National Highways.
