Rules notified for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Rules notified for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC)

Posted 14 Sep 2024

2 min read

National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Amendment Rules, 2024 have been notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in accordance with the National Highways Act, 1956

  • It amended the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008 to include provisions relating to GNSS-based ETC.
    • Inclusion of GNSS On-Board Unit (OBU) along with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR) Device and FASTag as methods of tolling.
    • Zero-user fee up to 20 kms of journey in each direction on National Highways once a day for mechanical vehicles (except National Permit vehicles).
    • Exclusive lane for GNSS at Fee Plazas. Non-OBU Vehicles entering this lane shall pay a double fee.
  • GNSS-basedETC is intended to eventually replace FASTag for toll collection on highways.

About GNSS-based ETC

  • Working: Uses satellite-based imaging to track the position of the vehicle and collect tolls based on the distance travelled.
  • Main components: 
    • OBU: GNSS-enabled device installed in a vehicle to determine vehicle route and calculate toll.
    • ANPR cameras: Installed on the highways to recognize vehicle’s number plate and deduct toll money.
  • Benefits: Decrease the need for roadside tolling infrastructure; reduce congestion; etc.

Comparison between FASTags &  GNSS-based ETC

Parameters

GNSS-based ETC

FASTags

Technology

Satellite-based imaging and ANPR

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

Equipment needed to be installed in Vehicles

OBU with GNSS connectivity

FASTag (RFID Tag) affixed on the windscreen

Calculation of Toll tax

Based on real-time vehicle movement data

Fixed rates

  • Tags :
  • FASTag
  • GNSS
  • Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)
  • Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR)
  • Electronic Toll Collection (ETC)
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