New Satellite-Based Toll Collection System | 15 Mar 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India announced in Parliament that the government intends to roll out a new highway toll collection system based on the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) before the model code of conduct for the 2024 election becomes effective.

What is the New Proposed Highway Tolling System?

• Salient Features:
  • The proposed highway tolling system utilises the GNSS, including the Indian satellite navigation system GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) for accurate location tracking.
    • The GNSS is a term used to refer to any satellite-based navigation system, including the US’ Global Positioning System (GPS).
    • It uses a large constellation of satellites to provide more accurate location and navigation information to users globally as compared to the GPS alone.
  • Implementation involves fitting vehicles with an On-Board Unit (OBU), or tracking device, which communicates with satellites to determine location.
  • Coordinates of national highways are logged using digital image processing, allowing software to calculate toll rates based on distance travelled.
    • Toll amounts are deducted from a digital wallet linked to the OBU, ensuring seamless and cashless transactions.
  • Enforcement measures including gantries equipped with CCTV cameras along highways to monitor compliance and deter evasion tactics.
  • The new system will likely coexist with the existing FASTag-based toll collection initially. A decision on mandating OBUs for all vehicles is yet to be made.
• Benefits:
  • Smoother Traffic Flow: Elimination of toll plazas is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
  • Faster Commutes: Frictionless toll collection should lead to quicker travel times and a more efficient highway network.
  • Fairer Billing: The system aims to offer users the benefit of paying tolls only for the actual distance travelled, promoting a pay-as-you-use model.
• Challenges:
  • Payment Recovery: Recovering tolls from users with depleted digital wallets or those who tamper with the system remains a concern.
  • Enforcement Infrastructure: Setting up a nationwide network of Automatic Number-Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for enforcement purposes requires significant infrastructure development.
  • Privacy Concerns: Data security and user privacy need to be addressed effectively.