NHAI Launches MLFF System on NH-48, 41,500 Vehicles Pass Seamlessly on Day One

The MLFF system introduces a fully automated, contactless tolling mechanism, eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas.

In a transformative step toward modernising India's highway infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has successfully launched the Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system at the Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch stretch of NH-48 in Gujarat. The rollout marks a significant milestone in India's transition to next-generation, barrier-less toll collection, with approximately 41,500 vehicles crossing the toll location on the very first day of implementation.

From Stop-and-Pay to Seamless Mobility

The MLFF system introduces a fully automated, contactless tolling mechanism, eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas. This shift from conventional toll booths to free-flow tolling represents a major upgrade in highway user experience.

Under the MLFF framework:

• Vehicles pass through toll points without stopping

• Toll collection occurs automatically in real time

• Human intervention is minimal, reducing operational delays

This innovation is expected to significantly reduce congestion, particularly on high-density corridors like NH-48, one of India's busiest national highways.

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The MLFF system integrates cutting-edge technologies to ensure accurate and efficient toll collection:

• Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR):Captures and verifies vehicle registration details

• FASTag-Based Electronic Toll Collection:Enables automatic deduction of toll charges from linked accounts

The synergy of these systems ensures high-speed, error-free, and contactless transactions, even at peak traffic volumes.

Major Gains: Time, Fuel, and Environment

The introduction of MLFF is expected to deliver multi-dimensional benefits:

• Reduced Travel Time: No waiting queues at toll plazas

• Fuel Savings: Elimination of idling and stop-start driving

• Lower Emissions: Reduced vehicular pollution due to smoother traffic flow

• Improved Logistics Efficiency: Faster movement of goods across corridors

Experts note that such systems are crucial for India's ambition to build smart, sustainable, and high-capacity transport networks.

Compliance Framework: FASTag Balance Mandatory

To ensure smooth functioning, NHAI has issued clear guidelines for highway users:

• Maintain adequate balance in FASTag accounts

• Ensure FASTag is valid and functional

In cases of non-compliance:

• An Electronic Notice (E-Notice) will be issued for non-payment

• Users must clear dues within 72 hours

Penalty Structure for Non-Payment

• Payment within 72 hours → Normal toll fee applies

• Payment after 72 hours → Double the toll fee

E-Notices can be accessed and paid via the official portal:👉 https://nhfeenotice.parivahan.gov.in/#/

Users are also allowed to:

• Raise grievances within 72 hours of notice issuance

Failure to comply may lead to:

• Blacklisting of FASTag

• Restriction of vehicle-related services via the VAHAN platform

Towards a Transparent and Cost-Efficient Tolling Ecosystem

Beyond user convenience, MLFF is expected to transform toll operations by:

• Enhancing transparency in toll collection

• Reducing infrastructure and manpower costs

• Minimizing disputes and leakages

• Enabling data-driven traffic management

A Blueprint for Nationwide Expansion

The successful rollout at Chorayasi Toll Plaza is being viewed as a pilot for large-scale adoption across India's National Highway network.

With traffic volumes rising rapidly and logistics efficiency becoming critical for economic growth, MLFF is poised to become a cornerstone of India's digital transport infrastructure.

Driving India's Highway Modernisation Vision

The MLFF initiative aligns with the government's broader push toward:

• Digital India

• Ease of travel and logistics

• Sustainable infrastructure development

As India continues to expand its highway network, barrier-less tolling systems like MLFF are set to redefine mobility—making travel faster, cleaner, and more efficient for millions of road users.