New Delhi:
In a significant move to streamline toll payments and offer relief to frequent commuters, the Indian government is contemplating the introduction of a ‘Monthly Toll Tax Smart Card’ for users of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) toll plazas. Union Road, Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari is at the forefront of this initiative, aiming to make travel more efficient and cost-effective.
The proposed ‘Monthly Toll Tax Smart Card’ is set to be a game-changer for drivers who regularly use NHAI toll plazas. This smart card, valid at all toll plazas across the country, will not only simplify the payment process but also offer substantial discounts on toll charges. With the government also working on implementing the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for toll collection, this initiative promises to revolutionize the way tolls are paid.
The central government is planning to roll out the ‘Monthly Toll Tax Smart Card’ specifically for NHAI toll plazas. Minister Nitin Gadkari is a strong advocate for this scheme, which is expected to bring significant relief to both commercial vehicles and frequent commuters on expressways. The smart card will be universally accepted at all toll plazas, reducing the hassle and cost associated with frequent toll payments.
This initiative is particularly beneficial for commercial vehicles, which often cover long distances and incur substantial toll expenses. By offering a monthly pass option, the smart card scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on these vehicles. For regular commuters, the convenience of not having to stop at toll booths and the savings from discounted toll charges will be a welcome change.
The government is concurrently working on the implementation of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for toll collection. This system involves installing a small device in vehicles to calculate toll fees based on their usage of toll roads. Although the full implementation of the GNSS system will take time, it will eventually integrate with the smart card feature, allowing frequent travellers to opt for monthly passes as a convenient payment method.
The smart card scheme and the GNSS system are designed to simplify toll payments and alleviate the financial burden on regular travellers. By eliminating the need to stop at toll booths, these technologies will ensure seamless travel, especially on high-speed corridors and four-lane highways. The government’s goal is to make travel more efficient and cost-effective, aligning with the broader vision of enhancing the country’s transportation infrastructure.
A final decision on the ‘Monthly Toll Tax Smart Card’ scheme is expected soon. Once implemented, this initiative is likely to bring relief from toll taxes to countless travellers across the country. While ministry sources have not clarified the specifics for motorists without a monthly pass, it is clear that regular commuters will benefit significantly from this new system.
