No Cash Payments at Toll Plazas on National Highways from April 10

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways notifies complete shift to FASTag and UPI at over 1,150 fee plazas; cash transactions will end from April 10, 2026.

Ministry Issues Notification  

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a gazette notification discontinuing cash payments at all toll plazas located on national highways. The new rule takes effect from April 10, 2026. Commuters will now be able to pay toll fees only through FASTag or Unified Payments Interface (UPI).

Digital Modes Mandatory  

Under the updated rules, vehicles plying on national highways must use either a valid FASTag or UPI at fee plazas. The move forms part of the government’s push towards fully digital toll collection across the country’s extensive highway network.

Aim to Cut Queues  

A senior National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) official said the decision seeks to reduce long queues at toll gates and ensure smoother travel for daily commuters. Officials believe the cashless system will speed up passage and minimise delays that often stretch for kilometres during peak hours.

UPI Costs More Without FASTag  

The notification makes clear that vehicles entering a plaza without a functional FASTag can still pay via UPI, but at a higher rate. Users will have to pay 1.25 times the applicable toll fee. The exact provision states that if the owner or driver does not opt for the specified payment mode, the vehicle will be dealt with under existing rules.

FASTag Annual Pass Gets Costlier  

The change comes weeks after NHAI raised the price of the FASTag annual pass by 2.5 per cent. The pass now costs ₹3,075 instead of the earlier ₹3,000. The hike has already drawn attention from frequent highway users who rely on the annual pass for multiple trips.

Over 1,150 Toll Plazas Affected  

More than 1,150 fee plazas operate on various national highways and expressways across India. The uniform cashless policy will apply to every one of them, marking a nationwide shift in how tolls are collected on major roads.

Vehicle Prices Rise Adds Pressure  

The toll rule change coincides with a 2-3 per cent increase in prices of commercial and passenger vehicles that took effect from April 1. Buyers who booked vehicles earlier but received billing after March 31 must now pay the revised rates. This dual burden of higher vehicle costs and stricter toll payments has left many motorists concerned.

The transition is expected to bring short-term inconvenience for users who still prefer cash or lack digital payment options. Transport experts note that millions of vehicles use these highways daily, and the absence of cash counters may initially slow down those unprepared for the change. However, the government views the step as essential for modernising highway infrastructure and reducing leakages in toll collection.

This India news update aligns with broader government efforts to promote digital payments and improve efficiency on national highways. Frequent travellers have been advised to ensure their FASTag is active and linked to sufficient balance well before April 10. State transport departments are also expected to issue awareness drives in the coming days.

As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on seamless implementation. Officials have indicated that the cashless system will eventually make highway journeys faster and more predictable for millions of citizens. The no cash payments at toll plazas policy is now just two days away from becoming reality.

Waqf Board removes Arif Ali Farooqui from post following complaints of obscene late-night calls and pressure for friendship and halala

Raipur Misconduct Case

The Waqf Board has dismissed the city Qazi of Raipur, Arif Ali Farooqui, from his position after serious allegations of misconduct surfaced. Officials acted swiftly following complaints that he made obscene phone calls to women at odd hours, including around 1 am, and pressured them for friendship.

According to reports, Farooqui, associated with the Madrasa Islahul Muslemin Yatimkhana in Baijnathpara, allegedly told one woman he would facilitate her divorce and then insisted on her involvement in halala. A woman complainant informed her family members, who then lodged a formal complaint with the Waqf Board.

Late-Night Calls Spark Outrage

The allegations point to a pattern of behaviour that shocked the local community. Sources indicated that Farooqui would call women late at night, engage in lewd conversations, and exert pressure for personal friendship. The matter came to light when the affected woman shared details with her relatives, leading to the complaint.

Ulema and community leaders described the actions as a serious breach of the dignity of the responsible post. The incident triggered widespread anger among members of the society, who viewed it as tarnishing the image of religious authority.

Emergency Meeting Leads to Dismissal

On March 31, 2026, prominent ulema and imams of Raipur convened an emergency meeting to discuss the complaint. Key figures including Qari Imran, Abdul Razzaq, Zaheer Rahbar, Abad Ali, and Ashraf Ali attended the gathering.

After detailed deliberations on the facts presented, the meeting passed a unanimous resolution. The decision resulted in the immediate removal of Arif Ali Farooqui from the position of city Qazi. Community leaders emphasised that such conduct undermines the sanctity of religious positions and erodes public trust.

Previous Allegations Surface

This is not the first time Farooqui has faced controversy. In October 2023, he was accused of assaulting a minor boy at the same madrasa over a missing headphone. The boy, a resident from Ramanujganj, reportedly suffered beating in the incident. Though the matter created a stir at the time, no strong action was taken then, according to local reports.

The recurrence of issues has now prompted stronger measures from the Waqf Board and community elders.

Community Reaction and Concerns

Ulema described the episode as damaging to the prestige of the Qazi's office. Several community members expressed outrage, stating that individuals in such positions must uphold high moral standards. The case has sparked discussions on accountability within religious institutions.

Local sources indicated growing demands for further police investigation into the complaints. Many view the dismissal as a necessary first step to restore confidence in community leadership.

Impact on Local Institutions

The development has drawn attention to oversight mechanisms in Waqf Board-managed institutions. It highlights the need for stricter protocols regarding the conduct of religious functionaries who interact with the public, especially vulnerable groups.

Women in the community have voiced concerns over personal safety and privacy, particularly regarding unsolicited late-night communications. The episode has also raised questions about the selection and monitoring processes for sensitive religious roles.

What Lies Ahead

With Farooqui's removal, the Waqf Board is expected to initiate the process for appointing a new city Qazi. Meanwhile, calls for a formal police probe into the allegations continue to gain momentum. Community leaders have urged maintaining calm while ensuring justice.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in positions of religious and social responsibility. Authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As per latest updates, no official comment from Farooqui was immediately available. The Waqf Board has confirmed the dismissal through its internal processes.

This case has emerged as a significant local development, reflecting ongoing efforts to address grievances within minority institutions in Chhattisgarh.

MP Weather Alert: Hail, Thunderstorms and Rain Likely Till April 5 Across 30 Districts

India Meteorological Department issues fresh warning as cyclonic circulation triggers strong winds, rain and possible hail in Nimar region; Bhopal, Indore among areas on alert amid mixed weather pattern in early April.

Weather System Active Over Madhya Pradesh

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued unsettled weather in Madhya Pradesh till April 5, with thunderstorms, gusty winds and rain expected in about 30 districts. Officials indicated that a strong cyclonic circulation and trough remain active, bringing the latest spell of pre-monsoon activity to the state.

On Thursday, rain is likely in districts including Gwalior, Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Morena, Sheopur, Shivpuri, Guna, Ashoknagar, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Alirajpur, Jhabua, Dhar, Barwani, Agar-Malwa, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Raisen, Narmadapuram, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Betul, Harda, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Khargone, Dewas and Shajapur.

Hail Expected in Nimar Region

Hail may occur in parts of the Nimar region, particularly Dhar, Barwani and Jhabua, as per the latest updates. Winds could gust up to 50 km per hour in some areas, especially Chhindwara, Seoni and Pandhurna, where speeds of 40-50 kmph are possible. In other districts, winds may range between 30-40 kmph accompanied by lightning and thunder.

This follows a spell of changeable weather in the past 72 hours, during which several districts reported rain, strong winds and isolated hail. On Wednesday, Bhopal saw thundershowers, while Sehore experienced hail along with gusty winds. Similar conditions affected Indore, Dewas, Ujjain, Khandwa, Chhindwara and other areas.

Temperatures Remain High in Parts of State

Despite the rain and storms, daytime temperatures stayed elevated on Wednesday. Narmadapuram recorded the highest at 40 degrees Celsius, followed by Ratlam at 39.2 degrees and Mandla at 39 degrees. In major cities, Jabalpur touched 38.4 degrees, Bhopal 37.4, Indore 36.5, Gwalior 36.1 and Ujjain 35.6 degrees Celsius.

The active weather system, including a cyclonic circulation over the region and another in the northwest, has kept conditions unstable.

Background of Recent Weather Activity

Madhya Pradesh has seen multiple rounds of unseasonal rain, thunderstorms and hail since February. In March alone, four spells brought relief from early heat but also caused damage to standing crops like wheat, papaya and banana in several districts. Government teams conducted surveys in affected areas to assess losses.

The current activity aligns with typical April patterns, where western disturbances and local systems often trigger isolated rain and hail before summer intensifies.

Impact on Daily Life and Agriculture

Farmers remain concerned as fresh hail and strong winds could further damage rabi crops in vulnerable pockets. In urban centres like Bhopal and Indore, sudden downpours and gusty winds disrupted outdoor activities on Wednesday, with residents taking cover during thunderstorms.

Authorities have advised people to avoid open areas, stay away from trees and loose structures during gusty winds and lightning, and secure livestock and property. Traffic movement may face temporary disruptions in rain-hit areas.

What Experts Say

IMD officials noted that the system is expected to persist for the next few days. A fresh western disturbance is likely to become active around April 7, potentially bringing more rain and winds till April 10 in some parts. After that, dry conditions may return, leading to a rise in temperatures.

By the last week of April, maximum temperatures in Gwalior, Dhar, Khargone, Barwani and nearby districts could climb to 44-45 degrees Celsius, with heatwave conditions possible in pockets of Gwalior-Chambal and other divisions.

Outlook for April and Summer

April and May traditionally mark the peak summer months in Madhya Pradesh. Historical data from the past decade shows Bhopal and Indore recording highs near 43-44 degrees, while Jabalpur and Gwalior have touched 44-45 degrees or more. Occasional rain and thunderstorms remain common in the month, providing brief breaks from the heat.

Residents and farmers are advised to monitor official updates closely. The mixed weather in the first week of April offers some respite but also highlights the need for preparedness against sudden changes.

As the state navigates this latest weather shift, officials continue to track developments for any escalation in warnings. Public cooperation in following safety advisories will help minimise risks during this period of instability.

LPG Charge on Food Bills Illegal: Govt Warns of Strict Action

Central government has declared LPG charge on food bills illegal and warned hotels and restaurants of strict action if they add extra fees such as ‘gas crisis charge’ or ‘fuel cost recovery’. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has ordered that all input costs must be built into menu prices, with only government taxes added separately.

Government Issues Strict Warning

The CCPA clarified that levying any separate operational charges on customers violates consumer rights. Restaurants can no longer pass on rising LPG costs through hidden fees after the menu price is fixed.

No Extra Charges Allowed

According to the order, hotels and restaurants must include every input cost – including fuel and gas – in the prices displayed on the menu. Customers should pay only the listed rate plus applicable taxes, sources indicated.

Menu Prices Must Reflect Costs

This directive comes amid the ongoing LPG crisis across the country. The authority noted that several establishments were trying to recover extra expenses by inventing new line items on bills, a practice now deemed illegal.

Viral Bengaluru Cafe Receipt

The trigger was a widely shared receipt from Theo Cafe in Bengaluru. A customer ordered two mint lemonades at ₹179 each, totalling ₹358. After a ₹7.90 discount, the cafe added a 5 per cent ‘gas crisis charge’ of ₹17.01 along with GST, pushing the final bill to ₹374.

Attempts to Bypass Service Charge Ban

CCPA investigations revealed that many outlets were using such charges to circumvent an earlier ban on compulsory service fees. Officials described the trend as a clear attempt to mislead customers and directed state-level monitoring teams to act swiftly.

Customer Complaint Options

If diners spot an LPG charge, fuel charge or any similar fee, they should first ask the management to remove it. In case of refusal, complaints can be filed through four routes: dialling the National Consumer Helpline at 1915, using the NCH mobile app, logging on to the e-Jagriti portal, or submitting a written complaint to the District Collector or CCPA.

Ensuring Fair Trade Practices

The move is expected to bring much-needed relief to consumers already grappling with inflation in daily essentials. Industry bodies have been advised to educate members about the new rules to avoid penalties. Officials said regular inspections would be carried out to ensure compliance.

This latest India news update reinforces the government’s commitment to transparent billing in the hospitality sector. With the LPG crisis showing no immediate signs of easing, the CCPA has made it clear that LPG charge on food bills will not be tolerated, protecting millions of diners from unfair practices.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Wednesday clarified that the minimum refill period for 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders remains 25 days, firmly dismissing social media claims of an extension to 35 days as fake news. The clarification comes amid growing concerns over supply pressures triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Officials stressed that no such change to 35 days has been made for double-cylinder connections or any other category. The government continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure equitable distribution of cooking gas across the country.

LPG Booking Rules Tightened

In recent weeks, the Centre has introduced several demand-side measures to manage LPG supplies. On March 9, authorities raised the minimum booking gap from 21 to 25 days in urban areas to curb panic buying and hoarding. For rural and difficult terrains, the gap was later set at 45 days. These steps aim to prevent misuse while maintaining steady availability for genuine households.

As of now, India has around 33.2 crore LPG connections, far outnumbering the 1.65 crore PNG connections. The ministry has urged consumers not to indulge in panic booking, assuring that normal deliveries continue without disruption.

New Order to Accelerate PNG Adoption

On Tuesday, the government notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act. The move seeks to fast-track piped natural gas infrastructure and reduce dependence on LPG cylinders amid global supply uncertainties.

The order introduces strict timelines for approvals and penal provisions for delays. Housing societies and resident welfare associations must grant permission for pipeline passage within three days of a request. Failure to do so could lead to suspension of LPG supply to the entire area after due process.

Key Provisions of the Distribution Order

Swift Approvals for Pipeline Projects

Government departments now face mandatory clearance deadlines — 10 days for small networks and 60 days for larger ones. Non-response within the stipulated time will be treated as deemed approval, allowing work to proceed without further delay.

Easing Land and Compensation Issues

To prevent prolonged litigation, the order provides a fixed compensation formula based on circle rates for private land used in pipeline laying. In case of disputes, the District Collector can intervene to ensure projects move forward without stalling supply chains.

Mandatory Shift Where PNG is Feasible

Households where PNG infrastructure is available or can be extended will receive a notice. They must take the piped gas connection, failing which LPG supply could be discontinued after 90 days. PNG users are already barred from retaining or refilling domestic LPG cylinders under a March 14 amendment.

Background and Policy Context

The measures follow earlier interventions this month. On March 6, a 21-day lock-in was introduced, which was quickly adjusted to 25 days in cities and extended further in rural areas. The March 14 notification made dual PNG-LPG connections illegal, requiring immediate surrender of LPG by those with piped gas.

These steps reflect the government’s strategy to promote cleaner, more efficient PNG while safeguarding subsidised LPG for households without access to pipelines. Global energy disruptions, particularly linked to West Asia, have prompted this calibrated response to avoid any domestic shortage.

Impact on Consumers and Industry

For millions of urban and rural families, the 25-day urban refill rule means slightly longer gaps between bookings compared to earlier norms. However, officials point out that average household consumption aligns well with this cycle, typically requiring 7-8 cylinders annually.

PNG, billed on actual usage, is generally considered more convenient and economical in the long run. It also eliminates the hassle of cylinder booking and delivery. Safety benefits are another plus, as piped gas reduces risks associated with cylinder handling.

Housing societies can no longer block pipeline projects arbitrarily, a frequent bottleneck in the past. This is expected to speed up city gas distribution networks significantly.

Exceptions and Relief Measures

The rules do not apply where technical constraints make PNG connection impossible. In such cases, LPG supply will continue uninterrupted. Consumers facing genuine difficulties can approach their distributors or local authorities for clarification.

What Lies Ahead

The government aims to expand PNG coverage rapidly through time-bound infrastructure rollout. Industry observers expect accelerated investment in city gas projects, supported by the investor-friendly provisions in the new order.

As implementation begins, officials have appealed for public cooperation. Consumers are advised to check official notifications from oil marketing companies and avoid unverified social media claims that could cause unnecessary panic.

In the final analysis, these government updates on LPG and PNG seek to balance immediate supply management with long-term transition to a cleaner fuel ecosystem. Households are encouraged to stay informed through authorised channels for smooth adaptation.