Govt to Implement Satellite-Based Toll System: Differences from FASTag Explained
No More Doubts: FASTag Confirms Toll-Free Travel for Light Motor Vehicles in Mumbai
Seamless Tolling Ahead, know how GNSS Technology will transform highway travel
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is set to introduce a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based toll collection system on select national highways to enhance toll collection efficiency and reduce congestion at toll plazas. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced this initiative in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, revealing that pilot studies have been conducted on the Bengaluru-Mysore section of NH-275 in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar section of NH-709 in Haryana.
To support the implementation, MoRTH hosted an international workshop on June 25, 2024, to engage stakeholders and conducted a global Expression of Interest (EOI) on June 7, 2024, to invite broader industrial participation. The deadline for EOI submissions was July 22, 2024.
The new GNSS system will operate in conjunction with the existing FASTag system during an initial hybrid phase. FASTag employs RFID technology, where a windshield sticker is read by toll booth scanners to automatically deduct tolls. Despite being faster than cash payments, FASTag still requires vehicles to stop at toll booths, which can lead to congestion during peak hours. Additionally, users must maintain a pre-paid balance for toll payments.
In contrast, the GNSS system uses virtual toll booths that interact with satellites to monitor vehicle locations and calculate tolls based on distance traveled. This approach eliminates the need for physical toll booths, facilitating seamless travel without stops. The GNSS system is expected to offer flexible payment options, including both prepaid and postpaid billing.
Initially, the GNSS system will work alongside FASTag, ensuring a smooth transition. FASTag users will not need to replace their tags immediately, though future updates may require GNSS-enabled devices.
