Page 14 - TT July Issue for Digital Edition

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Scripting Toll Collection

Revolution in India

ver the last decade, the tolling systems across the globe have revolutionized
and undergone a remarkable transformation by incorporating technologies like
Automatic Number Plate Recognition Systems and Electronic Toll Collection
supported by digital payment solutions. The establishment of Indian Highway
Management Company Limited (IHMCL), a company promoted by the National
O Highways Authority of India and mandating of NETC FASTag has played an
important role in helping digitization of the Indian tolling ecosystem and in facilitating the
adoption of digital payments in other segments as well.

FASTag made way for Fast Mobility
Utilizing RFID technology, FASTag enabled vehicles to pass through toll plazas without
stopping for cash payments. Initially, the Single Issuer Single Acquirer model was adopted,
which witnessed limited penetration. Later, under the guidance of NHAI, the model
transitioned to a Multi Issuer Multi Acquirer model in 2016, with the National Payments
Corporation of India (NPCI) as the Central Clearing House (CCH). This strategic shift
facilitated wider acceptance and usage of FASTag across the country. By 2023, 98% of toll
collections were conducted electronically through FASTag.

According to a study report, the average waiting time at toll plazas was drastically reduced
from 12 minutes to a mere 47 seconds. This significant reduction not only enhanced the user
experience but also contributed to lower plaza operational cost, reduced fuel consumption
and lower vehicular emissions, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

The Future: Global Navigation Satellite System based Tolling
Building on the success of FASTag, IHMCL is now poised to implement GNSS-based tolling
in India. The innovative system, announced by the Hon’ble Minister Nitin Gadkari aims to
revolutionize toll collection by charging users based on the actual distance travelled on
national highways. GNSS technology will enable satellite tracking of vehicle movements,
ensuring a seamless tolling process, promising enhanced efficiency and reduced congestion.
To facilitate the rollout of GNSS-based tolling, IHMCL has issued a Global Expression of
Interest, inviting leading global players in GNSS tolling to participate in the procurement of
robust, scalable, and efficient toll charger software.

On the eve of a day long International Workshop on GNSS based Electronic Toll Collection
in India put together by IHMCL on June 25, with multiple sessions on GNSS Toll Charger
Software, AIS 140 compliant tracking devices and more, IHMCL’s Chairman & Managing
Director Vishal Chauhan, IAS spoke to Mangala Chandran.

14 TRAFFICINFRATECH / July 2024 / www.trafficinfratech.com