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National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Amendment Rules, 2024 have been notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in accordance with the National Highways Act, 1956.
- It amended the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008 to include provisions relating to GNSS-based ETC.
- Inclusion of GNSS On-Board Unit (OBU) along with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR) Device and FASTag as methods of tolling.
- Zero-user fee up to 20 kms of journey in each direction on National Highways once a day for mechanical vehicles (except National Permit vehicles).
- Exclusive lane for GNSS at Fee Plazas. Non-OBU Vehicles entering this lane shall pay a double fee.
- GNSS-basedETC is intended to eventually replace FASTag for toll collection on highways.
About GNSS-based ETC
- Working: Uses satellite-based imaging to track the position of the vehicle and collect tolls based on the distance travelled.
- Main components:
- OBU: GNSS-enabled device installed in a vehicle to determine vehicle route and calculate toll.
- ANPR cameras: Installed on the highways to recognize vehicle’s number plate and deduct toll money.
- Benefits: Decrease the need for roadside tolling infrastructure; reduce congestion; etc.
Comparison between FASTags & GNSS-based ETC | ||
Parameters | GNSS-based ETC | FASTags |
Technology | Satellite-based imaging and ANPR | Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) |
Equipment needed to be installed in Vehicles | OBU with GNSS connectivity | FASTag (RFID Tag) affixed on the windscreen |
Calculation of Toll tax | Based on real-time vehicle movement data | Fixed rates |
