Industry News

FASTag annual pass crosses 5 lakh users in four days

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The newly launched FASTag Annual Pass has seen over five lakh registrations within just four days, the NHAI has confirmed. Tamil Nadu led in usage, followed by Karnataka and Haryana.

On the first day alone, over 1.4 lakh users activated the pass, leading to nearly 1.39 lakh toll transactions. The pass allows 200 toll crossings or 1-year validity, whichever comes first, at a cost of Rs. 3,000.

The Rajmargyatra App, used to purchase and activate the pass, quickly became the top-ranked government app, with over 15 lakh downloads and 4.5-star rating. It now ranks second in the Travel category on the Google Play Store.

The app also enables users to recharge the pass, track toll usage, and receive alerts while crossing toll plazas. Any private vehicle with a valid FASTag can opt in, with activation completed within two hours of payment.

NHAI said the scheme improves toll efficiency and user convenience nationwide.

Mitsui OSK Lines eyes Indian shipbuilding and logistics expansion

Japanese shipping giant Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL), the world's second-largest by fleet size, is in talks with the Indian government to build ships locally. MOL (India) Executive Officer Capt Anand Jayaraman said the company wants to align with India's maritime growth.

MOL has re-registered 13 vessels in India and aims to become the second-largest shipowner in the country. The firm will soon place orders for medium-range tankers from Cochin Shipyard and sees shipbuilding in India as part of its green shipping leadership.

Additionally, MOL India plans to enter railway logistics by next year, further diversifying its operations. With 935 vessels globally, the 141-year-old company is also eyeing India's new shipping subsidy scheme as a strategic opportunity to deepen its local footprint.