After a period of uncertainty, clear signs have emerged that the barrier-free toll collection system on National Highway (NH) sections, combined with the issuance of electronic violation notices, is contributing to increased discipline among road users.
Using the example of the Choriasi toll zone on NH-48 in Gujarat, which was the first to launch, the number of electronic notifications decreased from 1.7 lakh in May to 1.1 lakh in June, and then to 92,240 in July. In the Mundka toll zone in Delhi, which started operations on May 10, 1.69 lakh electronic notifications were registered in June, with a slight decrease to 1.67 lakh in July.
The Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system, or barrier-free toll collection, is currently operational at five toll zones. It was implemented on the Delhi-Jaipur section in Daulatpur and the Delhi-Chandigarh section in Garaunda during the third and fourth weeks of June. The most recent addition was the Manoharpur section on the Delhi-Jaipur highway, which began operation on July 1.
Data indicates that the number of electronic notifications issued in the first month of MLFF operation in Daulatpur, Garaunda, and Manoharpur was significantly lower than what was recorded when the system was launched in Choriasi and Mundka. In July, Daulatpur issued 33,038 electronic notifications, while Garaunda and Manoharpur recorded 86,760 and 70,550, respectively.
According to an official involved in the NHAI toll collection system, as awareness of electronic notifications for unpaid tolls spreads, drivers are becoming more law-abiding. Furthermore, many vehicle owners, especially motorists who do not use active FASTags, are beginning to comply with the rules.
Failure to pay or contesting an electronic notification within 72 hours may result in the vehicle owner being obligated to pay double the fee. Additionally, prolonged outstanding debt can affect access to services related to Vahan.
