New Toll Deduction System : India is undergoing a revolutionary change in its toll collection system. The government is phasing out traditional FASTag-based toll plazas and is now shifting to an advanced number plate recognition system powered by cutting-edge camera technology. This transformation aims to ease traffic congestion, eliminate physical toll booths, and enhance digital toll payments.
Let’s explore how this new toll deduction system works, what changes you can expect, and how it will impact daily commuters across the country.
What is the New Camera-Based Toll Deduction System?
The new toll system will use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology instead of satellites or RFID-based FASTag systems. This system captures vehicle registration numbers using high-resolution cameras installed on highways and automatically deducts the toll from linked bank accounts or wallets.
Key Features:
- No need to stop at toll plazas.
- Cameras scan license plates at high speed.
- Integrated with vehicle registration and payment databases.
- Real-time toll deduction from your account.
Why Is This System Being Introduced?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) wants to modernize India’s road infrastructure. The current FASTag system has its drawbacks like long queues, device malfunctions, and manual interventions. This new ANPR-based model addresses these problems and offers a seamless experience.
Objectives:
- Reduce traffic jams at toll plazas.
- Increase transparency and automation.
- Promote cashless travel.
- Save time and fuel for commuters.
How Does the Camera Toll System Work?
The technology is already in testing phases on select national highways and will be gradually expanded.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Vehicle passes under an overhead gantry fitted with ANPR cameras.
- Camera captures the number plate of the vehicle.
- System checks vehicle registration details and verifies account linkage.
- Toll is deducted automatically.
- SMS or app notification is sent to the registered user.
Difference Between FASTag and Camera-Based Toll
Here’s a comparison table to understand how the new system differs from the current FASTag model:
| Feature | FASTag System | ANPR Camera System |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Used | RFID Tag | Number Plate Recognition |
| Stopping Required | Partial Stop at Scanner | No Stopping Needed |
| Device Required | FASTag Sticker | No Device Required |
| Hardware Dependency | RFID Scanner at Toll Booth | High-Res Cameras on Highways |
| Error Possibility | High due to tag/read errors | Low with clean number plates |
| Maintenance Cost | Moderate | High Initial Cost, Low Ongoing |
| Implementation Status | Widely Implemented | In Pilot Phase |
| User Action Needed | Recharge & Stick FASTag | Ensure Number Plate Visibility |
Where Is the System Being Tested?
The camera-based tolling system is currently being tested on Delhi–Meerut Expressway, Eastern Peripheral Expressway, and a few other routes.
Upcoming Locations:
- Mumbai–Pune Expressway
- Bengaluru Peripheral Ring Road
- Delhi–Jaipur Highway
- Hyderabad ORR
- Chennai Bypass Road
The government plans to gradually expand this to all national highways by the end of the financial year.
Benefits for Commuters
This system offers a host of advantages for drivers, transport companies, and even the environment.
Major Benefits:
- Zero waiting time at toll booths.
- No dependency on physical tags or devices.
- Less pollution due to smoother traffic flow.
- Automated billing and better record-keeping.
- Reduced corruption and leakages in toll collection.
- Real-time analytics for traffic management.
What You Need To Do as a Vehicle Owner
While this system doesn’t require a device like FASTag, vehicle owners must ensure:
- Your vehicle registration is updated and linked to your digital payment method (bank account, UPI, or e-wallet).
- Your number plate is standardized and visible (as per Bharat Series/High-Security Number Plates).
- Your mobile number is linked to your vehicle registration for SMS alerts.
Checklist:
- Valid HSRP (High Security Registration Plate)
- Active bank account or wallet
- Mobile number linked with VAHAN portal
- No outstanding dues or blacklisting on vehicle
What Happens If Toll Deduction Fails?
In case the system is unable to deduct toll due to unlinked accounts or unreadable number plates, a penalty or double toll may be charged. The government is also considering blacklisting vehicles with repeat offenses.
Future of Toll Collection in India
India’s tolling system is on the cusp of a major upgrade. The ANPR-based toll deduction model is already in use in developed nations such as the UK, Singapore, and parts of the US. With the implementation of this system, India will join the global league of automated tolling systems.
The government’s long-term vision is to implement GPS-based tolling where charges are levied based on the distance traveled, further enhancing efficiency.
The shift from satellite and RFID-based toll systems to camera-driven ANPR technology marks a huge step forward in India’s digital transformation. While the new model is still in its pilot phase, it holds the promise of hassle-free, corruption-free, and efficient toll collection across the country. As the rollout progresses, vehicle owners must keep their documentation and payments updated to enjoy a smooth journey on national highways.
Stay alert for updates from NHAI and MoRTH regarding mandatory compliance and deadlines for the transition.
How does the new camera technology replace satellite for toll deduction?
By capturing vehicles passing through the designated areas for toll collection.
What advantages does the new camera technology offer over satellite for toll deduction?
Improved accuracy, reduced maintenance costs, and increased flexibility for toll collection.
How does the new camera technology improve toll deduction efficiency?
By capturing license plates for seamless and accurate toll deductions.
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