NHAI Transitions to GNSS-Based Satellite Tolling: A Leap for India’s Road Infrastructure

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has officially begun the transition toward a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based electronic toll collection system. Initially being implemented on select corridors as a pilot, this technology is set to eventually replace or augment the existing FASTag-based system, marking a significant evolution in India’s transport infrastructure management. Unlike the current FASTag system, which relies on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and requires vehicles to pass through physical toll gates, the GNSS-based system uses satellite-based positioning. Vehicles equipped with an On-Board Unit (OBU) are tracked via GPS or India’s NavIC system. Tolls are calculated based on the precise distance traveled on a particular highway stretch, utilizing 'virtual gantries' rather than physical barriers. This 'pay-as-you-use' model ensures a more equitable distribution of toll costs for short-distance travelers.