Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 8: In a move to streamline the upcoming barrier-less tolling system, the union ministry of road transport and highways has announced that commuters failing to pay toll charges on national highways will be served an e-notice and given a three-day window to settle the dues.
Failure to make the payment within this period will result in a double toll penalty. Furthermore, all vehicle-related services associated with the Registration Certificate (RC)—such as ownership transfer, vehicle renewal, and state transfers—will be suspended until the dues are cleared.
Shift to barrier-less tolling
The new rule is a critical component of the multi-lane free flow (MLFF) or barrier-less toll collection system being rolled out across India. Unlike the current system, MLFF allows vehicles to pass through toll points seamlessly without stopping. The first such system is set to be operational at Choryasi in Gujarat.
A senior ministry official stated that the e-notice system is essential for MLFF success. "Since vehicles are not stopped, the e-notice will initially reflect a double charge. However, if the owner pays within 72 hours, a 50% discount will be applied, effectively requiring them to pay only the original toll amount," the official explained.
Implementation and expansion
The Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) has already invited bids for MLFF implementation at 16 toll plazas. These include Mundka in Delhi, Gharaunda in Haryana, and Manoharpura, Shahjahanpur, and Daulatpura in Rajasthan. The government plans to bid out future MLFF projects in bundles to accelerate the nationwide transition.
Impact on vehicle services
To ensure compliance, the ministry has amended the National Highway Fee Rules. According to the new regulations, vehicles with unpaid toll dues will not be issued a 'No Objection Certificate' (NOC). This will effectively block the transfer of ownership or the movement of the vehicle from one state to another.
Detailed procedures for the e-notice system, including the mechanism for challenging incorrect charges, are expected to be notified by the ministry in the coming days.