India's First Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling

Key Highlights on Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling System in Gujarat

Overview:

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system at the Choraiyasi Toll Plaza on NH-48 (Surat-Bharuch section) in Gujarat.

Statistics:

• On the first day of implementation, approximately 41,500 vehicles crossed the MLFF toll plaza.

System Features:

• The MLFF system allows vehicles to pass through toll centers without stopping, ensuring a seamless traffic flow.
• It employs advanced technologies such as:
  • Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)
  • FASTag-based electronic toll collection for contactless operations.

Benefits:

• The introduction of the MLFF system is expected to:
  • Reduce congestion on national highways.
  • Enhance travel time efficiency.
  • Improve fuel efficiency.
  • Decrease emissions from vehicles.

User Guidelines:

• NHAI advises highway users to maintain adequate balance in their FASTag accounts for smooth operations.
• In cases of insufficient balance, invalid, or damaged FASTags, users will receive electronic notices (e-notices) for toll fee payment.
  • Users have 72 hours to pay the normal user fee after receiving the e-notice.
  • Failure to pay within the stipulated time results in a doubling of the toll fee based on vehicle category.

E-Notice System:

• E-notices can be accessed and paid through the portal: e-notice portal.
• Users can also lodge complaints regarding e-notices within 72 hours of issuance.
• Non-payment of e-notices may lead to blacklisting of FASTags and restrictions on other vehicular services associated with the vehicle.

Operational Impact:

• The MLFF system is designed to:
  • Enhance transparency in toll operations.
  • Reduce operational costs associated with toll plaza setups.
  • Contribute to the development of a more robust, efficient, and cost-effective tolling system across the national highway network.

This initiative by NHAI represents a significant advancement in India’s tolling infrastructure, aimed at improving the overall travel experience for highway users while promoting efficiency and environmental sustainability.