By the end of 2026, highway commuters in India may no longer need to stop at toll plazas, according to Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari. The government is implementing a multi-lane free flow (MLFF) system designed to allow vehicles to pass through toll points without halting.
New Toll System and FASTag Adoption
The MLFF system will utilize cameras positioned above roadways to automatically read license plates and deduct user fees from linked FASTag accounts. This process is expected to function even at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, Gadkari stated during an address to the Rajya Sabha.
Gadkari also highlighted the existing benefits of the FASTag system, noting it currently allows private vehicles to navigate over 200 toll plazas with greater ease.
Economic and Transparency Benefits
The implementation of the MLFF system is projected to yield significant economic benefits. Officials estimate fuel savings of Rs 1,500 crore and an increase in toll revenue of Rs 6,000 crore. Furthermore, Gadkari emphasized that the new system is intended to make toll collection more transparent and reduce opportunities for corruption.
A new policy is also being implemented to ensure vehicle owners settle all outstanding dues – including toll fees and e-challans – before selling their vehicles or renewing their registration.
Focus on Greenfield Highways and Logistics Costs
Beyond the MLFF system, Gadkari indicated a growing emphasis on the development of greenfield highways. He stated that these new routes are crucial for reducing logistics costs within India. Recent studies by IIM-Bangalore, IIT-Kanpur, and IIT-Madras suggest that road logistics costs have already decreased from 16% to 9%.
Gadkari concluded by underscoring the importance of infrastructure development for driving economic growth, attracting investment, creating jobs, and ultimately alleviating poverty.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the MLFF system be fully operational?
The government aims to have the multi-lane free flow (MLFF) system fully implemented by the end of 2026, according to Minister Nitin Gadkari.
How will the MLFF system work?
Cameras positioned above roadways will read vehicle license plates and automatically deduct user fees from the vehicle’s linked FASTag account, even while the vehicle is traveling at 80 kmph.
What are the expected benefits of the new system?
The MLFF system is expected to save fuel worth Rs 1,500 crore, increase toll revenue by Rs 6,000 crore, and make toll collection more transparent and corruption-free.
How might a nationwide, barrier-free toll system impact long-distance travel and freight transport in India?