Udaipur, August 1 (HS): The Central Government has decided to implement an advanced Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system as an additional facility alongside FASTag on select stretches of national highways. This new system will allow toll charges to be collected without requiring vehicles to stop, slow down, or halt in designated toll lanes. The initiative aims to enhance toll operation efficiency and ensure seamless vehicle movement without actual toll plazas.
Response to Parliamentary Query by MP Dr. Mannalal Rawat
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari shared this information in the Lok Sabha in response to a question raised by Udaipur MP Dr. Mannalal Rawat and other members. The query pertained to whether the government had introduced a new satellite-based toll system across the country and sought details on its features, status, timeline, and challenges. The members also asked if the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had implemented Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag-based barrier-free tolling systems at select booths.
No Satellite-Based Tolling Operational Yet
In reply, Minister Gadkari clarified that although expert committees comprising industry and academic professionals had recommended further deliberation on satellite-based tolling systems using the Indian Navigation Satellite Group—especially considering privacy and real-time operational controls—such a system is currently not active on any national highway.
Pilot Projects Underway for ANPR-FASTag System
The government has decided to move ahead with corridor-based projects using the ANPR-FASTag System (AFS) for implementing barrier-free toll collection. To this end, Request for Proposals (RFPs) have been finalised to enable seamless tolling without physical toll plazas.
Implementation Based on Results and Corridor Suitability
The ETC system with FASTag will initially be deployed on pilot corridors based on various factors like geography, traffic volume, lane alignment, and congestion. Based on the success and effectiveness of these pilot projects, the system may be gradually extended to other toll plazas.
Electronic Notices for Violations
Minister Gadkari also informed that for violations or non-FASTag cases under this seamless tolling system, electronic notices (e-notices) will be issued in accordance with provisions under the National Highway Fee Rules.
Work Begins in Rajasthan
For implementation in Rajasthan, bids have been invited for the Manoharpura, Shahjahanpur, and Daulatpura toll plazas on the Delhi–Jaipur NH-48 corridor.
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