GPS-based toll collection: Everything you need to know

GPS-based toll collection: Know everything about it

Around a decade ago, travellers had to pay toll taxes on highways using cash or a card only. However, the introduction of FASTag in 2014 made the toll collection process much easier, quicker and seamless. In 2021, FASTag became mandatory for every four-wheeled vehicle crossing a toll booth. However, in 2024, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, announced that the Centre planned to introduce FASTag GPS, a satellite-based toll collection system, to streamline the process further.

While FASTag was effective enough to avoid long queues at toll plazas, the GPS-enabled toll collection system will eliminate the need for toll booths altogether. It is the next level of technology that will save time and deliver other benefits. Read on to learn more about this space-age system of toll collection.

What is the GPS-based Toll Collection System?

While the transportation industry in India is dynamic, the government keeps improving the landscape to ensure swift moves through toll plazas. With that objective, it plans to introduce a GPS-based toll collection system that automatically deducts the toll charge from the traveller's bank account, based on location. GPS-based toll collection is the process of collecting toll charges using GPS technology.

Using FASTag GPS will make it easier for the transportation department to calculate a vehicle’s toll charges. It will deduct the applicable charges directly from the vehicle owner’s bank account as it enters the GPS coordinates of a toll collection point. The government aims to simplify the toll collection process to make travelling a hassle-free experience for everyone.

How does the GPS-enabled Toll Collection System work?

Under the GPS-based toll collection system, a microcontroller with GPS and 3G connectivity will be installed in every vehicle. Using this microcontroller, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) can track the vehicle's movement and determine the applicable toll charges based on its routes and the toll gates it crosses. Currently, toll collection takes place at the end of a specific road with fixed rates for approximately 60 km. However with the new system, a more precise toll collection will be possible based on the exact distance travelled.

Although the implementation of this new toll collection method will take a few years, once implemented, it will work as follows:

● The car will have an On-Board Unit (OBU) that tracks the vehicle for toll collection

● The OBU will monitor the car coordinates when it drives on toll roads and highways and share them with the satellite to calculate the distance travelled

● GPS technology, which operates with the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), will accurately calculate the distance travelled

● The highways will also have cameras to ensure proper distance measuring by comparing the coordinates with images. The cameras will also help identify the vehicles with no/disabled OBUs.

Initially, only a few major expressways and highways will implement the GPS-based toll collection system. While OBUs are crucial to the system, they are not already present in vehicles. Every vehicle owner will need to install it externally. Although OBUs are not available for purchase as of now, they might be similar to FASTag, which is available through various websites and e-commerce platforms. Vehicle owners might be able to order them by completing their KYC and entering their vehicle’s registration number.

Benefits of using a GPS-enabled Toll Collection System

Let’s look at the benefits of using FASTag with GPS:

● Convenience: By eliminating physical toll plazas altogether, the system will reduce waiting time for toll collection.

● Accurate monitoring: The system enables accurate monitoring of vehicles whenever they encounter highways or roads with toll charges.

● Reduced traffic: The dynamic collection system automatically calculates and deducts the toll charges from the vehicle owner’s bank account, eliminating the need to stop at toll booths to pay. This manages the traffic flow efficiently.

● Data collection: With constant monitoring, the system will provide valuable insights into road conditions, facilitating infrastructure maintenance and planning.

● Cost-efficiency: It reduces the operational costs required for manually maintaining toll plazas and collecting toll charges.

● Environmental benefits: Automatic toll collection will reduce emissions from vehicles waiting at toll plazas, decreasing pollution and discomfort.

Challenges of implementing the Satellite-based Toll System

The government might face several challenges when implementing the GPS-based toll collection system, including the following:

● High initial costs: Significant investments will be necessary for infrastructure and satellite technology.

● Privacy concerns: The system raises issues related to the vehicle owner’s privacy, as the FASTag GPS constantly tracks and stores their movement data.

● Technical issues: Since the system is highly dependent on technology, it is also susceptible to signal disruptions and technical glitches, making it less reliable.

● Data security: The risk of data breaches and cyber attacks might compromise the system’s integrity.

● Maintenance needs: Ongoing updates and maintenance of the ground and satellite systems can be expensive.

● User acceptance: Vehicle owners with privacy concerns and those wary of new technology may not readily accept the system.

● Regulatory and legal challenges: The complete implementation of the system requires efficient coordination with several government bodies.

How does the GPS-based Toll Collection System differ from FASTag?

The FASTag system has a magnetic sticker affixed to a vehicle's windscreen. As the vehicle crosses a toll plaza, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader scans the tag and deducts the applicable toll charges from a linked account or prepaid wallet. On the other hand, the GPS-based toll collection system constantly tracks a vehicle throughout its journey. While FASTag deducts the toll only when it crosses a toll plaza, the GPS system will deduct the amount based on a vehicle’s real-time movements.

The GPS-based toll collection system is a significant move towards convenient travel. It will save time, as vehicles no longer need to stop at toll plazas for payments. Although the system causes privacy concerns among vehicle owners, it will also contribute to a reduced crime rate in India. FASTag is an efficient toll collection system that makes toll payments as smooth as possible.

Conclusion

GPS-based toll collection is a groundbreaking technology that offers a seamless, accurate and efficient way to manage toll payments and road usage. By leveraging GPS technology, this system promises to enhance travel experiences, reduce operational costs and promote environmental sustainability. As we move towards smarter transportation solutions, the GPS-based toll collection is set to play animportant role in shaping the future of toll payments and traffic management.