India is gearing up for a major transformation in its highway toll collection system, moving towards barrier-free, seamless tolling with the help of cutting-edge technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and potential satellite-based user fee systems, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.
In a written reply, the Minister for Road Transport and Highways said that while a satellite-based toll collection system is being actively considered, a high-level committee comprising experts from industry and academia has recommended further deliberations on security, privacy, and operational control before full-scale rollout.
“The Apex Committee and High-Level Empowered Committee have recommended further discussions for the satellite-based toll system due to security and privacy considerations,” Gadkari stated.
He clarified that such a satellite-based tolling system is not yet operational on any National Highway in India. However, the government is pressing ahead with other advanced tolling mechanisms that do not require vehicles to stop at traditional toll plazas.
ANPR-Based FASTag System to be Rolled Out
As an immediate step, the government has decided to implement corridor/stretch-based projects using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) linked with FASTag technology. This approach, called the ANPR FASTag System (AFS), is a key step toward achieving Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling across Indian highways.
“Request for Proposal (RFP) to implement barrier-less tolling system has been invited/finalized,” Gadkari informed.
The MLFF system will allow toll to be deducted from a vehicle’s FASTag account without stopping or even slowing down, using a combination of ANPR cameras and radio-frequency identification (RFID) scanners. This is expected to reduce congestion, minimize fuel consumption, and improve overall commuter experience.
A Glimpse into the Future
While FASTag-based tolling has already improved travel times, this new phase marks a shift toward fully automated, technology-driven tolling, eliminating the need for physical toll booths.
Gadkari has long championed technology-enabled infrastructure, and this move aligns with his broader vision of smart mobility and digital transformation of transport systems in India.
