In a significant development, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced plans to replace traditional toll plazas with GPS-based toll collection systems across the country. The initiative aims to tackle traffic congestion and enable precise tolling based on the actual distance traveled by motorists on highways.
While improvements in waiting times have been notable in certain areas, urban centers and densely populated towns continue to experience delays at toll plazas, particularly during peak hours. The proposed GPS-based toll collection system is envisioned as a game-changer, providing a more efficient and streamlined solution.
FASTag, the existing GPS-based toll collection system mandated for four-wheelers, employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for automatic toll deduction as vehicles approach toll gates. However, the upcoming GPS-based toll collection will differ by continuously tracking vehicle movements and collecting toll taxes through GPS imaging throughout the journey.
Unlike FASTag, where tolls are automatically deducted only upon approaching the toll plaza, the new GPS-based system will ensure continuous monitoring and toll collection based on the entire route traveled.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari stated that the government plans to introduce these advanced technologies, including GPS-based toll collection systems, within the next six months. The shift is expected to enhance the overall travel experience for motorists while addressing the challenges posed by traditional toll plazas.
