NHAI Launches Digital Local Pass for Highway Users Living Within 20-Km of the Toll Plaza

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the Digital Local Pass facility on its RajmargYatra mobile application.

The new system allows residents living within a 20-kilometre radius of an eligible National Highway toll plaza to apply for, verify, and purchase a monthly local toll pass completely online, eliminating the long-standing requirement to visit toll booths in person with physical documents.

The nationwide rollout kicked off with a pilot implementation at the Mundka–Bakkarwala Toll Plaza on Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) in Delhi. The facility will be extended to all eligible toll plazas across India in a phased manner over the coming months.

Features of the NHAI Digital Local Pass

• Radius Coverage: 20 km radius from designated toll plaza
• Application: 100% Online via RajmargYatra App (Android & iOS)
• Verification: Automated via DigiLocker, VAHAN & GIS Mapping
• Travel Benefit: Unlimited monthly passes for local residents
• Toll Plaza Visit: Not required (Fully paperless & contact-free)

Paperless Verification via DigiLocker and VAHAN

Under the previous framework, local commuters had to physically present identity proofs, utility bills, and vehicle documents to toll operators to claim local resident exemptions.

The new digital architecture automates verification in minutes using consent-based integrations:

• DigiLocker Integration: Automatically validates residential address proof.
• VAHAN Database: Instantly retrieves vehicle ownership and registration parameters.
• GIS-Based Geo-Validation: Verifies whether the applicant’s registered residence falls within the eligible 20-km geographic boundary of the specific toll plaza.
• FASTag Linking: Automatically syncs the verified local pass to the vehicle’s active FASTag account.

Why NHAI Introduced the Digital Local Pass

Eliminating Friction in Barrier-Less Tolling (MLFF)

The introduction of Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) barrier-less tolling, which uses high-speed RFID readers and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, created a operational challenge.

Previously, local residents without formal passes often crossed toll gates based on personal familiarity with staff. Under automated MLFF systems, unpass-registered local vehicles automatically triggered unpaid toll penalties and electronic notices (e-notices). The online pass allows local residents to register their vehicles instantly, avoiding unnecessary fines while keeping traffic flowing at full speed.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Local Pass Online

1. Download and Register

Download the RajmargYatra app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and register using your mobile number.

2. Select Local Pass Option

Navigate to the ‘Local Pass’ section on the home dashboard.

3. Fetch Details via Government APIs

Grant consent to retrieve your residential address from DigiLocker and vehicle credentials from VAHAN.

4. GIS Location Check & Payment

The app performs an automated GIS spatial check to confirm you live within 20 km of the chosen toll plaza. Upon approval, complete the payment online to activate the pass on your FASTag instantly.

Bonus Launch: AI-Powered ‘MargMitra’ Help Centre

Alongside the Local Pass, NHAI launched MargMitra, an artificial intelligence assistance module embedded directly inside the RajmargYatra app.

Important Capabilities of MargMitra:

• 22 Language Support: Commuters can type or speak queries in 22 regional Indian languages.
• FASTag & Refund Queries: Check FASTag KYC status, balance, blacklisting, and request toll refunds.
• Grievance Redressal: File complaints regarding toll harassment, road maintenance, or encroached highways, complete with real-time tracking and an appeal mechanism.