Goodbye FASTAG, Hello GPS Toll: Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari Makes New Announcement
Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has just announced plans to revolutionize toll collection in India by introducing a satellite-based system, or GPS toll as it’s popularly known as. Instead of the current method where toll fees are directly deducted from bank accounts through Fastag, the new system will calculate charges based on the distance traveled on the highway, using a GPS-based system. Gadkari highlighted the efficiency of the new approach, saying that it would result in time and fuel savings for commuters.
“We are putting an end to the present toll system. Now there will be satellite based toll collection system. Money will be deducted from your bank account. You will be charged based on the total distance you have travelled. Time will be saved and fuel will be saved,” said Nitin Gadkari.
Gadkari highlighted benefits of tolled highways that reduced travel time and fuel consumption. He cited the example of the Mumbai-Pune route, where travel time decreased from nine hours to just two hours. This not only reduced travel time spent for commuters but also ensured fuel cost savings.
“The fate of the country will change by the end of 2024. This is because the road network of National Highways will be equal to that of America. That is my goal. I am sure that I will definitely be successful in this,” Gadkari said, speaking to ANI.
Gadkari said that he is not stopping at GPS tolls but is working on improving India’s road infrastructure to a level better than that of even the United States . The 8,500 Kms Bharatmala-2 project will be a key element in his vision of making India’s road infrastructure better than that of USA.
The minister also said that the Indian government’s aim of becoming a 5 trillion US dollar economy will require top class road infrastructure, and that rapid economic growth will come once road infrastructure is put in place.
“It is a matter of sorrow for me that I could not stop accidents. It is related to human behavior. But I am sure that in the coming time, we bring about behavioural change and create awareness about road safety. This will definitely give us results,” he added.
Gadkari acknowledged challenges in curbing road accidents. He said that road accidents can’t be eliminated completely but increased road safety awareness, safer vehicles and behavioural changes can greatly reduce accidents on Indian roads.
How GPS based toll collection system works?
A GPS-based toll system dumps the traditional toll booth. Cameras equipped with automatic license plate reading technology are installed along highways. These cameras, along with GPS satellites tracking your vehicle’s location, work together.
When you enter and exit a tolled section, the system reads your plate and uses the GPS data to calculate the distance you traveled. This distance determines the toll amount, which is then automatically deducted from your pre-registered account linked to your license plate.
Compared to traditional toll booths, a GPS-based system offers several advantages. First, it eliminates the need to stop completely, leading to smoother traffic flow and shorter travel times. Since the system tracks your exact distance, you only pay for the road you use, saving money on shorter trips. Finally, with no cash handling involved, the entire process becomes more efficient and reduces the risk of errors.