Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced on Thursday that barrier-free tolling on national highways will be implemented across India by December 2026. Under this new system, vehicles will be charged based on identification through high-performance Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and FASTag readers, eliminating the need to stop at toll plazas.
How the System Works
The barrier-free tolling system leverages advanced technology to ensure seamless movement of vehicles. High-performance ANPR cameras will capture license plate numbers, while FASTag readers will detect RFID tags installed on vehicles. The toll amount will be automatically deducted from the linked prepaid account or bank account, allowing vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping.
Benefits of Barrier-Free Tolling
This initiative aims to reduce congestion at toll plazas, save time for commuters, and lower fuel consumption caused by idling vehicles. It is also expected to improve air quality around toll areas and enhance the overall efficiency of highway travel. The system will be rolled out in phases, with full implementation by December 2026.
Current Status and Future Plans
Gadkari stated that the Ministry is working closely with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition. Pilot projects have already been successful in select corridors, and the technology is being fine-tuned for nationwide deployment. The minister emphasized that the system will be interoperable across all states and highways.
The announcement comes as part of the government's broader push to digitize and modernize India's transportation infrastructure. Barrier-free tolling is expected to complement other initiatives such as the FASTag electronic toll collection system, which has already seen widespread adoption.
