By News Desk 
If you own a vehicle and frequently travel on highways, you’re probably used to paying toll taxes. However, a new rule is being introduced that could offer significant relief to many drivers. The Indian government is preparing to implement a fresh toll collection system aimed at reducing hassle and unnecessary charges for short-distance travelers.
Who Will No Longer Pay Toll Tax?
Under the new policy, vehicles traveling less than 20 kilometers on highways, expressways, or tunnel roads will be exempt from paying any toll tax. This change is expected to benefit daily commuters and residents living near toll plazas.
A GPS-Based Toll Collection System
The government is moving away from traditional toll plazas and is working on a satellite-based tolling system. This new method will rely on GPS technology to automatically track the distance a vehicle travels on tolled roads. Once a vehicle crosses the 20 km threshold, the toll fee will be deducted based on the exact distance covered.
Vehicles will need to have GPS devices installed for this system to function properly. Special lanes will be designated for vehicles equipped with GNSS-OBU (Global Navigation Satellite System On-Board Unit). If a non-GNSS-equipped vehicle enters these lanes, it will be charged double the normal toll as a penalty.
Fastag, Number Plate & Auto-Deduction
Once the new system is in place, toll amounts will be automatically deducted based on GPS tracking. The system will link your GPS data with your FASTag, vehicle registration number, or other identifiers to calculate and deduct the fee. After each toll deduction, vehicle owners will receive an SMS notification confirming the transaction and the amount charged.
What Happens After 20 Kilometers?
Travel up to 20 km will be free, but if your journey exceeds that, you’ll be charged based on the total distance traveled. This applies to all national highways, expressways, and tunnels. The new system is designed to be fairer by charging only for the distance actually covered.
Additional Rules and Fines
- Vehicles without national permits will be allowed free round trips up to 20 km in a single day.
- Non-GPS vehicles entering GPS-only lanes will be penalized with double toll fees.
- Dedicated lanes for satellite-tracked vehicles will be clearly marked.
Benefits of the New Toll System
- No toll for trips under 20 km, benefiting local commuters.
- No stopping at toll plazas, reducing congestion and fuel wastage.
- More accurate and fair billing based on actual road usage.
- Potentially lower toll rates compared to the current system.
With this system, the government aims to make toll collection more efficient, less intrusive, and more commuter-friendly. The rollout is expected to take place in phases, with official notifications and guidelines to follow soon.