NHAI High-Tech Update 2026: A revolutionary change has begun for those traveling on India’s highway network. You no longer have to endure long queues at toll plazas, waiting for barriers to open, and wasting time. The country’s first barrier-free toll system has been successfully launched in Surat, Gujarat.
Under this new system, there will be no physical obstructions or barriers on the highway, allowing vehicles to pass through without slowing down. This technology will not only save fuel but also significantly reduce travel time, providing a permanent solution to the problem of highway traffic congestion.
How does this barrier-less technology work
The entire system relies on a network of sophisticated sensors and cameras fitted to gates (gantries) above the road. Automated number plate recognition (ANPR) and high-resolution cameras are used to instantly read the license plates of vehicles passing at high speeds. Additionally, it is equipped with radar and lidar-based cameras that record 360-degree views of each lane.
As soon as a vehicle passes under these cameras, the system identifies the vehicle and connects directly to the NHAI server, automatically deducting the toll from the linked Fastag or bank account. Modeled after countries like Dubai and Australia, this technology is completely digital and transparent.
What if there’s no Fastag or low balance
Many people have questions about how toll collection will be done without a barrier if the vehicle doesn’t have a Fastag or has a low balance. The unique feature of this system is that it doesn’t rely solely on Fastags; even if a vehicle doesn’t have a Fastag, its cameras can identify the vehicle owner through the number plate.
In such cases, it will be considered a toll violation, and an alert will be immediately sent to the vehicle owner’s registered mobile number. If the toll is not paid within the stipulated time limit, the system will automatically generate an e-challan that will be sent directly to your address or updated on the vehicle portal.
Preparations for nationwide expansion
Following the success of this pilot project in Surat, the government now plans to implement it on other major expressways and national highways across the country. This system will also enable strict monitoring of those who attempt to evade tolls, as cameras record from every angle, making it impossible to escape.
In the future, this technology will work in conjunction with GPS-based tolling, where you will only be charged for the distance travelled. This change will not only bring Indian roads closer to global standards but will also provide travellers with a hassle-free and pleasant driving experience.
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Vikram Singh
Author at TimesBull covering breaking news and current affairs.
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