India Set To Replace FASTag With GPS-based Toll Collection
In a move set to revolutionise India's toll collection system, Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has hinted at the adoption of a GPS-based method for toll collection, potentially replacing the current FASTag technology.
The proposed shift from the existing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology used in FASTags to a GPS-based toll collection system aims to streamline toll collection processes and enhance efficiency for travellers. By eliminating physical toll booths and implementing a GPS-based method, the government aims to mitigate traffic congestion and reduce waiting times at toll plazas.
According to media reports, the transition from FASTag to GPS-based toll collection is imminent. This anticipated move is poised to elevate the toll-paying experience for vehicle owners across the country. The envisioned system entails the installation of microcontrollers equipped with 3G and GPS connectivity in vehicles, enabling regulatory authorities to track vehicle routes and toll passages accurately.
The utilisation of the Global Positioning System (GPS) is expected to simplify toll collection procedures by accurately calculating and collecting toll fees based on the actual usage of toll roads. Unlike the FASTag system, which required vehicles to display a windshield sticker scanned at toll plazas, the GPS-based system aims to track vehicle movements seamlessly, eliminating the need for vehicles to halt at toll booths.
This innovative system promises to save time for travellers while enhancing transparency in toll collection processes. By precisely tracking vehicle routes and toll passages, the GPS-based system is poised to ensure more accurate toll charging. The integration of microcontrollers with 3G and GPS connectivity in vehicles marks a significant step toward incorporating advanced technology into India's transportation infrastructure.
The potential transition to a GPS-based toll collection system signifies a progressive move toward modernising India's toll infrastructure, offering a glimpse into the future of seamless and efficient transportation systems.
