India is transitioning from the FASTag system to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for toll collection on highways and expressways. The new policy allows vehicles with GNSS to travel toll-free for up to 20 kilometers daily, with toll charges applied only beyond this distance. The system is being piloted on select highways, and the government plans to integrate GNSS with the existing FASTag infrastructure, creating a hybrid tolling model that includes both RFID and GNSS-based systems.
GNSS offers several advantages over the traditional FASTag system by using satellite technology to calculate tolls based on the actual distance traveled rather than fixed locations. This change ensures fairer toll charges and a seamless experience for drivers, reducing bottlenecks and overcharging issues. It also helps minimize toll evasion and provides valuable data for traffic management and infrastructure planning.
By adopting GNSS, the Indian government aims to enhance toll collection efficiency and accuracy, ensuring that drivers are charged fairly for their road usage while promoting a smoother and more transparent tolling process. This move represents a significant step toward a more advanced and equitable system of toll collection in India.