MCD Plans New Toll Collection System for Delhi 156 Entry Points
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has started a new process to appoint a company for managing toll collection at 156 entry points in the city. An online tender has been issued, inviting interested companies to take over toll collection from commercial vehicles and improve toll plaza facilities.
The selected company will also be responsible for collecting environment compensation charges (ECC) and depositing them on a weekly basis. Toll collection will be done using different methods, including Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology at 13 locations, handheld devices at 111 locations, and manual collection at other points. The deadline for submitting bids is March 24.
This move aims to increase revenue for the civic body. MCD has set a target of at least ₹900 crore in annual toll revenue, compared to the ₹864 crore collected so far. The new contract will be for three years, with an option to extend for six months. To attract more bidders, MCD has made changes to the eligibility criteria, making it easier for companies to qualify.
However, finalizing the new contract depends on the formation of the standing committee, which has been delayed for nearly two years. This committee is responsible for deciding toll rates and selecting the new company. Due to this delay, the current toll collection agency has received two extensions beyond April 10, 2024. Officials have stressed the importance of setting up the committee soon to avoid financial losses.
Currently, MCD follows toll rates set in 2007. Commercial vehicles without an MCD tag are charged ₹100 per trip, while those with a tag pay ₹3,000 per month. Trucks and other heavy vehicles have higher charges. Initially, Delhi had 124 toll points, but 30 more were added later, bringing the total to 156. On average, over 1 lakh commercial vehicles enter the city daily, with about 70,000 being taxis or cabs.
