5 Ways GPS Based Toll (GNSS) Will Change Highway Travel

Soon, the Government of India will be changing the way toll collection takes place in the country. The current system, FASTag, which was innovative at the time of its release, is now showing its limitations. So now, in order to change things up, the Government of India is going to introduce GNSS, or the Global Navigation Satellite System.

What is GNSS?

GNSS is an advanced toll collection system that uses real-time satellite tracking to calculate tolls based on the exact distance a vehicle travels on a toll road. The rollout is expected to begin with a hybrid system that integrates GNSS with FASTag. Then, over time, GNSS is expected to fully replace the current toll system. Once this transition takes place, there will be a number of benefits.

How GPS-based tolling will change highway travel

20 Kilometers Free

The first and biggest benefit that local people will have is that, under the GNSS system, people will enjoy 20 km of toll-free travel. This will be a game-changer for those living near toll plazas who frequently make short trips. Currently, even if you live just a few kilometers from a toll plaza, you are required to pay the same toll as someone traveling a much greater distance.

With GNSS, these local commuters will no longer need to pay for short trips. This will directly benefit those who live in suburban or rural areas close to highways, making their daily commutes more affordable.

No Toll Booths, No Crowding

Apart from the above benefit, the main one will be the complete elimination of toll booths. Traditional toll plazas, even those equipped with FASTag technology, often lead to bottlenecks and long queues, particularly during peak hours or holiday seasons.

GNSS relies on satellite tracking, meaning vehicles will no longer need to slow down or stop to pay tolls. This will result in smoother traffic flow and less congestion at traditional choke points, providing drivers with a more seamless travel experience.

Faster Journeys

With the disappearance of toll booths and the improved traffic flow that GNSS promises, travel times on highways will be significantly reduced. Gone will be the days of waiting in long lines at toll plazas, only to lose precious minutes (or even hours) on long-distance journeys.

GNSS will ensure that vehicles can move at a consistent speed without unnecessary stops. This is especially beneficial on India’s busy highways. This change will not only make road trips more enjoyable but will also help the logistics industry by improving the efficiency of freight transport.

No More Toll Fights

People fighting with toll employees and other vehicle drivers at tolls is very common in India. Toll booths are often a source of frustration and conflict for many drivers. Under the GNSS system, these disputes will not exist as there will be no toll booths.

Since tolls will be calculated based on the exact distance traveled, the system will avoid human interactions and ensure that drivers pay a fair price for their use of the highway. There will be no room for confusion or disagreements about the toll amount. This will lead to fewer arguments at toll plazas and an overall reduction in stress for both drivers and toll operators.

Better Road Management and Planning

The implementation of GNSS will have an impact on how India manages its road networks. The data collected from satellite tracking can be used to gain valuable insights into traffic patterns, road usage, and congestion points. This real-time data will allow authorities to make better decisions regarding infrastructure development, road maintenance, and future highway projects.