The Indian government has updated the National Highway Fee Rules, 2008, paving the way for the adoption of a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based tolling system. This move is set to transform toll collection across the country by enabling seamless, contactless, distance-based charging.
Under the new system, the traditional toll booth model will be replaced with a ‘Pay as You Use’ approach, which charges commuters based on the actual distance traveled on highways. This method is expected to be fairer to both commuters and transporters.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, led by Nitin Gadkari, has already piloted the system on key highway segments, including the Bengaluru-Mysuru stretch on NH-275 in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar section on NH-709 in Haryana.
A global Expression of Interest (EOI) has been issued for constructing GNSS lanes at toll plazas, with the bidding process currently underway. The new tolling system is anticipated to be fully operational by April 2025.
One notable feature of the initiative is the introduction of zero user fees for mechanical vehicles traveling up to 20 km on a specific highway stretch, applicable once per day in each direction. For distances beyond this threshold, tolls will be assessed based on the distance covered by GNSS-compliant vehicles.
The GNSS-based system aims to enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion at toll plazas, and facilitate smoother travel. It represents a significant advancement in toll collection technology, integrating satellite technology to improve accuracy and user convenience. The project is managed by the Indian Highway Management Company Limited (IHMCL), a subsidiary of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which has earmarked approximately 5,000 km for initial implementation.
Indian officials have studied similar systems in Europe, noting Germany’s successful booth-less tolling system, which now covers 52,000 km and generates substantial revenue. The government hopes to replicate such success in India, aiming for reduced toll leakage and improved efficiency.
The transition to GNSS-based tolling is expected to advance India’s sustainability goals by reducing traffic congestion and lowering carbon emissions from idling vehicles at toll booths. This project aligns with India’s broader efforts to integrate advanced technology into its highway infrastructure, following the successful deployment of FasTags for electronic toll collection nationwide.
Special report by TheUnplanned.in
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