India’s road infrastructure is currently experiencing a significant evolution, with advanced technologies such as FASTag, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and the newly introduced Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based tolling system. These innovations are not only enhancing the efficiency of toll collection but also improving road maintenance across the country.
FASTag, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, has fundamentally changed the tolling landscape by facilitating automatic, contactless payments. As part of a nationwide initiative, FASTag has been made mandatory for M&N category vehicles, with all lanes at National Highways fee plazas designated as FASTag lanes. This initiative has dramatically reduced waiting times and streamlined toll transactions for millions of commuters, making travel more efficient and less frustrating. Enhancing this efficiency further, ANPR technology has been integrated into the toll collection systems at select locations. By employing high-resolution cameras to automatically read vehicle number plates, ANPR works in tandem with FASTag to ensure precise tolling and minimise errors. This synergy improves transparency and reduces disputes over toll charges, fostering trust among highway users.
A major advancement in this domain is the Indian government’s rollout of GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) at 100 toll plazas. GNSS technology offers a sophisticated mechanism for tolling, enabling real-time location-based payments. This pilot implementation is set to illustrate how GNSS can streamline toll collection by eliminating the need for physical toll booths, thus providing a seamless travel experience for users. Beyond the advancements in toll collection, these technologies also play a crucial role in improving road maintenance. The maintenance of roads is ensured through various contract models such as Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC), Design Build Finance Operate and Transfer (DBFOT), and Toll Operate and Transfer (TOT). These models guarantee that roads are maintained in optimal condition throughout their lifecycle, thus enhancing the overall quality of the transportation network.
In addition, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is actively seeking user feedback to further enhance services. Highway users can report issues or submit complaints via the toll-free helpline number 1033 and the Rajmargyatra application. These platforms allow for effective communication, enabling users to track the resolution of their grievances and ensuring that their voices are heard.
