NHAI Launches Barrier-Free Tolling on NH-48
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has successfully activated a Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system at the Manoharpura Toll Plaza on the Delhi-Jaipur section of NH-48 in Rajasthan. This barrier-free network eliminates traditional toll booths, transforming the Electronic Toll Collection process on the national highway network.
The rollout follows the installation of the state's first free-flow system at the Daulatpura Toll Plaza on June 19, making commuting across the entire Delhi-Jaipur section seamless. According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, the implementation marks a major advancement in digital National Highway infrastructure. After the recent activation at Manoharpura, the authority plans to convert the Shahjahanpur toll plaza to the same network.
How the System Works
The new framework introduces barrier-less tolling with minimal human intervention, enabling vehicles to pass through toll locations without stopping. By ensuring zero waiting time and uninterrupted vehicular movement, the technology helps commuters save time, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce vehicular emissions at busy toll points.
The mechanism integrates Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology with FASTag-based Electronic Toll Collection to automate user fee collection. The Ministry stated that the initiative aligns with the Government of India's vision of delivering citizen-centric services by leveraging technology for enhancing Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business.
Payment and Penalty Process
For a seamless experience, highway users must maintain sufficient balance in their accounts. If a vehicle passes through with insufficient balance, an invalid FASTag, or a nonfunctional tag, the system automatically issues an Electronic Notice (E-Notice) for non-payment of the user fee.
Drivers receive a 72-hour window from the generation of the E-Notice to pay the standard rate. If a user fails to comply after 72 hours, the system charges the user fee at twice the normal rate for the vehicle category. Commuters can access and pay these penalties through the designated Parivahan portal and the Rajmargyatra mobile application.
Broader Impact on Highway Network
Beyond improving individual travel times, the technology optimizes the broader highway network. The deployment strengthens the tolling ecosystem by enhancing transparency, reducing operational costs associated with setting up physical toll plazas, and improving overall efficiency in toll operations across the country.
