The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) recently announced that vehicles equipped with the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) will be allowed free journey for up to 20 kilometres a day in each direction on national highways and expressways.
The ministry, through a notification, has amended the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008, to introduce provisions for GNSS-based electronic toll collection in India. This initiative aims to reduce congestion at highway toll plazas and implement toll charges based on the actual distance travelled by vehicles.
What are the new toll rules?
With the implementation of the new rules, private vehicle drivers are allowed toll-free travel for up to 20 kilometers on national highways, expressways, bridges, and tunnels. However, this will be limited to those equipped with a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) On-Board Unit.
In case the distance exceeds 20 kilometres, a fee will be charged for the actual distance covered. The rule exempts vehicles with a national permit, which are primarily used for commercial transport.
The ministry is also planning to have designated lanes for vehicles fitted with GNSS units. Drivers found entering these lanes without an operational GNSS unit will be penalised with a fee double the standard toll rate.
Who stands to benefit?
According to the official notification, this policy brings significant advantages to millions of private vehicle owners, especially those making frequent short trips on highways. Commuters who use the same highway section daily for work or errands stand to benefit the most, as they can now bypass toll fees for shorter distances.
By incorporating GNSS technology, the toll collection process is set to become more seamless. Traffic at toll plazas is expected to decrease, as vehicles equipped with GNSS units will be automatically charged for longer journeys, removing the need for manual payments or stopping at booths altogether.