New GNSS Toll Regulations: 20 km Free Travel Introduced

Motorists with functional GNSS systems in their private vehicles can now travel toll-free for up to 20 km daily on highways and expressways starting Tuesday. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways amended the toll collection rules, charging fees based on the actual distance traveled if it exceeds 20 km.

Starting Tuesday, motorists with private vehicles equipped with functional Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) can enjoy toll-free travel for up to 20 km daily on highways and expressways, as per a new government notification.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has revised the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules of 2008, which has come into effect. The updated regulations, now known as the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Amendment Rules, 2024, specify that toll charges will apply only after the first 20 kilometers.

The pilot study of the GNSS-based user fee collection system was initially conducted on NH-275 and NH-709 in Karnataka and Haryana, respectively. The government aims to integrate this system with the existing FASTag infrastructure to offer a seamless tolling experience, enhancing convenience for highway users and improving toll collection efficiency by reducing leakages and preventing evasion.

(With inputs from agencies.)