MoRTH Introduces Real-Time GIS-Based Toll Monitoring and Plans for Satellite-Based Tolling System
(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 12)
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology;
GS2 – Governance |
| Context: |
| ● The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has developed a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based software for real-time monitoring of wait times at highway toll plazas.
● This software, developed by Indian Highways Management Company Ltd (IHMCL) and promoted by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), will be piloted at 100 toll plazas, selected based on congestion feedback. |
Analysis of News:
How the Monitoring System Works
- The software will provide real-time data on the name, location, queue lengths, wait times, and vehicle speeds at toll plazas.
- It will also generate traffic condition analyses on hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly bases, helping commuters avoid congested lanes.
Satellite-Based Tolling System
- MoRTH is also developing a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based toll system, which will eventually replace the FASTag system.
- This system will enable distance-based tolling, allowing users to pay only for the distance traveled.
- GNSS-based tolling will initially operate alongside FASTag and will automate toll payments without the need for boom barriers.
Benefits to Users
- The satellite-based toll system is expected to make toll passage faster, reducing delays caused by current FASTag operations, which can take up to a minute per vehicle.
- The new system aims to minimize queues and improve traffic flow at toll plazas.
- Since its launch in 2015, FASTag has been responsible for over 98% of toll payments, as of March 2024.
| PYQ: Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2018) |
| Practice Question: Discuss the potential impact of the GIS-based real-time toll monitoring system and the upcoming GNSS-based toll collection on traffic management and user convenience in India. (250 words/15 m) |
