The Indian government is embarking on a significant upgrade of its toll collection system by transitioning from the existing FASTag system to the advanced Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). This article delves into the implications of this transition.
GNSS is a satellite-based toll collection technology that monitors vehicles as they travel on toll roads. Unlike FASTag, which utilizes RFID tags and requires physical toll booths, GNSS calculates the toll fee based on the actual distance traveled by the vehicle. The toll amount is automatically deducted when the vehicle exits the tolled highway.
While FASTag has successfully reduced congestion at toll plazas and facilitated cashless transactions, it still depends on physical toll booths, resulting in queues and delays. The GNSS system eliminates the need for toll booths entirely, ensuring a smoother and faster travel experience.
A satellite-based unit installed in vehicles tracks their movements on tolled highways. Upon exiting the toll road, the GNSS system calculates the distance covered and deducts the appropriate toll fee from the driver's account, ensuring that drivers only pay for the distance they have traveled.
The GNSS system is currently undergoing tests on two national highways: the Bengaluru-Mysore National Highway (NH-275) in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar National Highway (NH-709) in Haryana. The government is analyzing data from these tests to address any challenges prior to a nationwide rollout.
The transition to GNSS technology represents a pivotal advancement in India's road infrastructure modernization. This upgrade promises a more efficient and convenient toll collection process. Although the rollout will occur gradually, the new system is anticipated to significantly enhance travel experiences across the country's highways.
Q1. What is the main advantage of GNSS over FASTag?
Answer: The primary advantage of GNSS is that it eliminates the need for physical toll booths, allowing for a seamless travel experience without delays caused by queues.
Q2. How does GNSS determine the toll fee?
Answer: GNSS calculates the toll fee based on the actual distance traveled by the vehicle on tolled highways, ensuring drivers pay only for the distance they cover.
Q3. Where is GNSS being tested in India?
Answer: GNSS is currently being tested on the Bengaluru-Mysore National Highway (NH-275) and the Panipat-Hisar National Highway (NH-709).
Q4. What are the environmental benefits of using GNSS?
Answer: The reduced number of toll booths leads to less vehicle idling, which contributes to lower emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
Q5. When will GNSS be implemented nationwide?
Answer: The rollout of GNSS will happen gradually, with the government reviewing test data to ensure a smooth transition before nationwide implementation.
Question 1: What technology is set to replace FASTag in India?
A) RFID technology
B) Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)
C) Biometric tolling
D) Manual toll collection
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is a key benefit of GNSS technology for toll collection?
A) Increases physical toll booths
B) Enables pay-per-kilometer system
C) Requires cash payments
D) Slows down traffic
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which national highways are testing the GNSS system?
A) NH-44 and NH-48
B) NH-275 and NH-709
C) NH-1 and NH-2
D) NH-66 and NH-7
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How does GNSS calculate toll fees?
A) Based on vehicle type
B) Based on distance traveled
C) Fixed rate for all vehicles
D) Random selection
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is one of the environmental impacts of GNSS?
A) Increased traffic jams
B) Higher emissions
C) Reduced vehicle idling
D) More toll booths
Correct Answer: C
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