Wednesday, May 06, 2026
By Kamal Swami
NHAI MLFF Toll Rule: Pay Double for Late Payment
With the aim of addressing concerns about people moving from highways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a notice explaining how this system operates. With India shifting towards barrier-less toll plazas, the authority has highlighted the situations when vehicle owners have to pay double toll for travelling on highways.The MLFF system is part of India’s push for seamless and efficient highway travel. This system of toll collection is different from traditional methods of collecting tolls. The introduction of MLFF corridors ends the need for physical barriers and allows users to cross the toll plaza without stopping. The system works on automated detection using FASTag-based electronic toll collection, supported by overhead cameras and sensors that identify vehicles and deduct toll charges in real time.
Although the use of this technology helps in reducing congestion at toll plazas, it also saves travel time and improves fuel efficiency. However, at the same time, NHAI has warned that it is also necessary for motorists to be vigilant. Since there are no toll booths, the system depends entirely on proper FASTag functionality, sufficient balance, and accurate vehicle identification. According to NHAI, an electronic notice (e-Notice) is generated when a vehicle crosses an MLFF toll point but the FASTag payment is missed, unsuccessful, or not detected. These notices are linked to the vehicle’s registration details and are issued digitally, providing users an opportunity to clear pending dues.
Motorists are required to settle the pending toll within 72 hours of receiving the e-Notice. Payments made within this timeframe are charged at the standard toll rate. However, failure to pay within 72 hours results in a penalty, doubling the toll amount. NHAI clarified that the additional charge is not for using the MLFF corridor, but for the delayed payment of the missed toll. Vehicle owners can check and pay their pending dues through the official portal managed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC). Users need to log in using their vehicle registration number and verify their identity via an OTP linked to their registered mobile number. The portal allows users to view notices and complete payments securely.
In cases where users believe an e-Notice has been issued incorrectly, NHAI provides a grievance redressal option. Complaints must be raised within the same 72-hour window through the NIC portal to avoid penalties. To ensure smooth travel and avoid additional charges, NHAI has advised motorists to keep their FASTag active, maintain sufficient balance, ensure their vehicle is fitted with a High Security Registration Plate (HSRP), and regularly monitor notifications. The introduction of MLFF tolling marks a significant step in modernising India’s highway infrastructure. However, as NHAI emphasises, the success of this system depends not only on technology but also on user awareness and timely compliance.
