Fastag to Be Replaced by GNSS-Based Toll Collection
Until now, travelers have been using Fastag to pay toll tax at toll plazas, but the government is introducing a new toll tax system that will soon replace the existing one. This updated system will phase out Fastag in favor of a GNSS-based tolling mechanism, ensuring a more seamless and efficient toll collection process. The Union Transport Ministry has already issued instructions regarding this change, and soon, toll tax deductions will be carried out under the new system across the country.
How Will the New Toll System Work?
Fastag operates using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to facilitate automatic toll collection. However, this system is now being integrated into an advanced method where tolls will be collected via satellite-based tracking. The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) will now be the primary technology for toll tax deductions, eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas.
Nitin Gadkari’s Statement on GNSS Tolling
Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced in the Rajya Sabha that the government is implementing a satellite-based toll collection system in conjunction with the existing Fastag service. This initiative will enhance convenience for highway commuters. As a pilot project, the GNSS-based toll system has already been introduced on selected national highways, including the Bengaluru-Mysore Highway (NH-275) in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar route (NH-709) in Haryana.
Faster Toll Payment, Reduced Travel Time
The central government has initiated the implementation of the GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system on selected national highways alongside Fastag. According to Nitin Gadkari, this upgrade is designed to further minimize the time vehicles spend at toll plazas. The new satellite-based toll system is expected to be significantly faster than the current Fastag mechanism, streamlining travel across national highways.
Benefits of Virtual Toll Collection
The introduction of the satellite-based toll system will revolutionize the way tolls are collected. Passengers will no longer need to stop at toll booths, as the new system will automatically deduct toll charges while they are on the move. This will make travel on national highways more convenient and efficient.
Currently, toll collection is carried out using RFID-based Fastag, but the upcoming GNSS-based tolling system will function as a virtual toll collection method. Unlike traditional toll booths, this system will not require physical toll plazas, allowing vehicles to pass seamlessly without interruptions. This advanced technology is set to significantly reduce congestion and improve the overall driving experience.
How the GNSS Toll System Works
With the introduction of the GNSS toll system, virtual gantries will be installed along highways. Only vehicles equipped with GNSS-enabled technology will be charged as they pass through these designated virtual toll points. The toll amount will be automatically deducted from the user’s account in real time. Several countries have already implemented similar satellite-based toll systems, benefiting their citizens with faster and more efficient toll collection. Indian drivers using Fastag will now experience a much smoother toll payment process under the new system.
Reasons for Delays in National Highway Projects
During a discussion in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was also questioned about the delays affecting over 600 national highway projects initiated in the last decade. Addressing these concerns, he explained that such delays often occur due to challenges in land acquisition and legal clearances. The statutory approval process takes time, and issues such as land encroachments and contractor financial difficulties further contribute to project delays.
Conclusion
The transition to GNSS-based toll collection marks a significant step toward modernizing India’s toll payment system. By eliminating physical toll booths and enabling real-time deductions, this system promises a smoother travel experience. As the government continues to implement this new technology, drivers across India can look forward to faster and more efficient toll payments, ultimately reducing congestion and travel time on national highways.
