By The introduction of FASTag certainly made the toll system far better than the conventional cash collection but still, it is not highly efficient as it had its drawbacks too. To revolutionize India’s toll collection system, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari recently announced plans to transition from the existing FASTag technology to a more advanced satellite-based toll collection system. This innovative approach aims to streamline the toll payment process, replacing traditional toll plazas with a seamless, automated system designed to enhance convenience for commuters nationwide.
Under the proposed satellite-based system, toll charges will be automatically deducted from commuters’ bank accounts based on the distance travelled, eliminating the need for physical toll booths. Gadkari emphasized that this transition will not only save time for travellers but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing fuel consumption. One of the key advantages highlighted by Gadkari is the significant time and fuel savings facilitated by modern highways. Citing the example of the Mumbai-Pune route, where travel time has been reduced from nine hours to just two hours, Gadkari underscored the efficiency gains enabled by improved infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Gadkari outlined ambitious goals for India’s road network, aiming to match the extensive highway network of the United States by the end of 2024. Ongoing projects like Bharatmala-2, covering approximately 8500 km, complement previous initiatives such as Bharatmala-1, which spans 34,000 km. Despite these advancements, Gadkari acknowledged the persistent challenge of road accidents and expressed a commitment to promoting behavioural changes and raising awareness about road safety. The transition to satellite-based toll collection represents a significant leap forward in India’s transportation infrastructure. However, integrating this technology into every vehicle nationwide poses a formidable challenge that will require careful planning and execution.
