As India’s auto industry continues to grow rapidly, the number of toll collections has also increased. However, the traditional toll collection method might soon become obsolete as the government prepares to replace it with a new-age technology called the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has already announced the advanced toll collection system, which is currently in the testing phase. The GNSS is set to replace the existing toll collection system across India. Unlike FASTag, the GNSS will operate using a navigation satellite system. Vehicles will be equipped with a satellite-based unit, allowing authorities to track them as they use toll highways.
When a vehicle exits a tolled road, the system will calculate the exact usage and automatically deduct the precise amount. This ensures that travellers only pay for the distance covered on the toll highway.
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Benefits of GNSS Over FASTag
The new toll collection system will enable customers to pay the exact amount for their toll road usage, helping them save money on every trip. It will also eliminate the need for traditional toll booths, reducing long queues and providing drivers with a more convenient travel experience.
Implementation Timeline and Expected Rollout
The government has noted that implementing this new system will take time and cannot happen overnight. However, testing has already begun on two major national highways—the Bengaluru-Mysore National Highway (NH-275) in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar National Highway (NH-709) in Haryana.
Officials are currently analyzing the challenges and data collected during testing and will submit their findings to the concerned ministry. Once approved by top officials, the new toll collection system will be rolled out in phases, starting with the major highways that connect key cities in India.