No Toll for Journeys Up to 20 km on Satellite-Based System

 

The central government is moving forward with its policy to determine toll charges based on the distance travelled on highways and expressways. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways announced that there will be no toll charged for journeys up to 20 kilometres when using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). This adjustment in toll policies is part of the ministry's efforts to refine highway toll regulations.

Under the revised rules, toll taxes will be applicable only after traveling more than 20 kilometres on national highways and expressways. This means that for the first 20 kilometres, vehicles will not incur any toll charges. However, those traveling beyond this distance will have to pay the toll tax based on the kilometres travelled.

The new system, utilizing GNSS technology, will track vehicles and charge tolls, accordingly, ensuring a fair toll structure based on the exact distance covered. This change is in line with the 2008 National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, which aim to simplify toll collection and ensure transparency.

The GNSS-based tolling system will impact various vehicles, including national permit holders, drivers of other vehicles, and owners who frequently use highways, bridges, bypasses, or tunnels. The system will apply charges daily, and every user, including private and commercial vehicle operators, will be required to pay toll taxes once the journey exceeds the initial 20 kilometres.