Nitin Gadkari Leads GNSS Revolution in Indian Toll Collection

New Delhi: In a landmark move towards modernizing India’s toll collection infrastructure, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) recently spearheaded an international workshop on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC). This initiative aims to usher in a seamless and barrier-free tolling experience across the country’s National Highways, reducing congestion and enhancing operational efficiency.

The day-long workshop held in New Delhi brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including global experts, industry leaders, and government officials. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, emphasized the transformative impact of GNSS technology on toll collection systems, highlighting its role in enhancing navigation accuracy and ensuring smoother travel experiences for commuters.

Key discussions at the workshop focused on various aspects crucial for the successful implementation of GNSS-based ETC in India. Topics included the integration of On-Board Units (OBU), compliance with NH fee regulations for commercial vehicles, Toll Charger Software functionalities, and the pivotal role of issuer entities in managing the new tolling system. Experts from prestigious institutions like IITs, NIC, NPCI, and global technology firms contributed insights into the technological and infrastructural requirements for multi-lane free flow tolling.

Under the proposed system, NHAI plans to integrate GNSS-based ETC within the existing FASTag ecosystem, initially adopting a hybrid model alongside RFID-based ETC. Dedicated GNSS lanes at toll plazas will facilitate seamless passage for vehicles equipped with GNSS-based ETC, gradually phasing out traditional toll lanes in favour of technology-driven solutions. The adoption of GNSS technology promises several benefits for highway users, including hassle-free tolling experiences without barriers, distance-based toll calculations, and improved operational efficiencies. Furthermore, the system aims to curb toll evasion and enhance revenue collection integrity across the nation’s highway network.