Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari Announces End of Tolls, Introduces Satellite-Based Toll Collection System

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In a landmark announcement, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has unveiled plans to revolutionize India’s toll collection system, ushering in a new era of convenience and efficiency in road travel. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key developments:

1. End of Toll Collection:

Minister Gadkari declared the government’s decision to abolish tolls nationwide, signaling a significant departure from traditional toll collection methods.
A new satellite-based toll collection system will be introduced, eliminating the need for physical toll booths and allowing for seamless, automated toll collection.

2. Satellite-Based Toll Collection System:

Under the new system, toll charges will be deducted directly from travelers’ bank accounts based on the distance traveled on the road.
This innovative approach not only streamlines the toll collection process but also saves time and money for commuters, fostering a more efficient transportation ecosystem.

3. Reduced Travel Time:

Minister Gadkari highlighted the remarkable reduction in travel time between Mumbai and Pune, from 9 hours to just 2 hours, showcasing the tangible benefits of modernizing transportation infrastructure.

4. Emphasis on Bharatmala Pariyojana:

Discussing the Bharatmala Pariyojana, which aims to develop approximately 26,000 kilometers of economic corridors, Minister Gadkari underscored its significance in enhancing freight traffic handling.
He emphasized the project’s transformative potential, alongside the Golden Quadrilateral and North-South and East-West corridors, in revolutionizing India’s road network.

5. Ambitious Goals:

Minister Gadkari articulated his ambition to elevate India’s National Highway road network to the standard of America, expressing confidence in his ability to achieve this ambitious goal.
He projected a revolutionary transformation of the nation’s transportation landscape by 2024, driven by strategic infrastructure development initiatives.

6. Rollout Timeline:

Earlier announcements indicate that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) aims to implement the new satellite-based toll collection system by March 2024.
Efforts to streamline processes and reduce waiting times at toll plazas have been communicated to international bodies like the World Bank, reflecting a commitment to global best practices.

7. Construction Activity:

Construction and expansion activities on National Highways have witnessed a significant uptick, with a rise of approximately 10 percent between April and November of the current fiscal year.
However, there has been a decline of 52 percent in the allocation of new construction projects this year, signaling a need for strategic resource allocation and project prioritization.

Minister Gadkari’s bold initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to modernizing India’s transportation infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a more efficient and sustainable future.