In a significant move to promote the adoption of advanced technology and reduce toll burdens for commuters, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a new policy.
Starting from the 1st of September 2024, vehicles equipped with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology will be exempt from toll charges for distances up to 20 km on national highways and expressways.
How it Works
To avail of this benefit, vehicle owners must ensure that their vehicles have a functional GNSS system installed.
The toll system will automatically track the distance travelled and deduct the appropriate amount from the user’s account. India’s own navigation systems, GAGAN and NavIC, can be used for this purpose.
Pilot Projects and Implementation
The Ministry has conducted successful pilot projects on the Bengaluru-Mysore section of NH-275 in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar section of NH-709 in Haryana to test the GNSS-based toll collection system.
Based on the positive outcomes, the government has decided to implement this system on a wider scale.
Benefits for Commuters
The toll-free travel initiative offers several advantages to commuters.
Reduced Costs- Significant savings for frequent travellers on short distances.
Convenience- Seamless and efficient toll collection process.
Technological Advancement: Adoption of advanced GNSS technology.
Fairness and Efficiency- The system ensures fair toll collection based on actual usage, eliminating the need for physical toll booths and reducing traffic congestion.
Toll Exemption- Vehicles with GNSS technology will not have to pay toll charges for the first 20 km of their journey on national highways and expressways.
No Toll for Taxi Numbers- The exemption is applicable only to private vehicles and does not extend to vehicles with taxi numbers.
The introduction of free travel for GNSS-equipped vehicles on highways marks a significant step towards improving road infrastructure and reducing the financial burden on commuters.
This initiative promotes the adoption of modern technology and offers a more convenient and cost-effective travel experience.