India to introduce toll cards for private cars, reduce traffic jams

The Indian government is exploring the possibility of granting monthly and annual passes to private motorists on national roads, a move that aims to help motorists while resolving revenue concerns.

This decision was taken by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on January 16, 2025, citing the fact that the Indian toll business derives the bulk of its revenue from commercial vehicles, which constitute 74 percent, compared to just 26 percent. cent that private vehicles bring in.

STRENGTHS OF THE PROPOSAL

• Monthly and annual passes: Passenger car owners will be allowed to buy some usage time on state highways in exchange for a one-time fee, which could reduce expenses for those who use these highways frequently. The idea is to target toll users, who lose valuable time due to traffic jams in merging lanes to enter toll booths.

• Barrier-free toll collection: The government also plans to introduce a toll collection system based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) in conjunction with the pass system. Advanced technology expects toll payment reform and reduced waiting times. Heavy traffic jams on some sections of the highway have been resolved through pilot programs that Gabari called technically advanced.

• Location of toll booths: A new toll plaza will not only be installed, but also located in a designated location so that rural communities are not disrupted by new single or multiple locations. The objective here is to avoid the collection of tolls hindering local transport.

EFFECTS ON DRIVERS OF DIFFERENT TYPES

It is hoped that the introduction of these passes will make it much easier for private vehicle owners to pay for alternative routes. By operating a new barrier-free system, the state intends to help improve traffic flow and reduce waiting times at toll booths – a perennial headache for drivers.

Furthermore, this illustrates a growing trend towards modernization of transport systems in various parts of India to make them more acceptable without compromising revenue generation.

The government is cautious to mention this, although as Gadkari mentioned, it insists on implementing these changes openly and efficiently.

While things like pricing and timelines are being finalized, those in the transportation industry are optimistic about the potential benefits.

This initiative not only brings a new perspective on how tolls are managed, but also shows the Indian government’s commitment to improving the road travel experience across India.

Final details will also be communicated in due course by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.