India's Satellite-Based Tolling Revolution: Zero Wait Times and Increased Revenue by 2026

By late 2026, India's satellite-based toll collection system will eliminate toll plaza waits, increase government revenue, and save billions in fuel costs. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced this system will include satellite technology and AI-based number plate recognition. The initiative aims to boost efficiency and curb toll theft.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced in the Rajya Sabha that India's satellite-based toll collection system will be operational nationwide by the end of 2026. This system promises to eliminate waiting times at toll plazas for commuters, significantly increasing revenue for the government.

During the Question Hour session, Gadkari stated that the technology integrates satellite and AI-based features, allowing vehicles to bypass toll plazas without stopping. The result would be a potential savings of Rs 1,500 crore in fuel and an additional Rs 6,000 crore in government revenue due to the elimination of toll theft and increased efficiency.

The implementation of this Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll system, which will replace the FastTag system, aims to maintain vehicle speeds at 80 km/h through advanced number plate recognition technologies. Gadkari also assured measures against contractor malpractices and noted that national highways fall under this initiative, as regional road issues often mistakenly attributed to them.

(With inputs from agencies.)