Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently announced that the government is planning to implement new technologies, including GPS-based toll collection systems, to replace existing highway toll plazas. The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion and ensure motorists are charged accurately for the distance traveled on highways. The rollout of new GPS satellite-based toll collection is scheduled to commence nationwide by March next year.
Automated Toll Collection Trials: Successful Pilot Projects with ANPR System
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has conducted two successful pilot projects featuring Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, specifically automatic number plate reader cameras. These trials aim to enable automated toll collection without the need for vehicles to come to a complete stop.
Future Road Projects: Rs 1.5-2 Lakh Crore Worth of Bids on BOT Model
Looking ahead, the government plans to bid out road projects worth Rs 1.5-2 lakh crore on the Build Operate Transfer (BOT) model. These projects, focusing on highways of less than 1,000 kilometers in length, are slated to be awarded before the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct for the upcoming general elections in April-May 2024.
Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs): Preferred Model for Future Highway Construction
Gadkari shared that going forward, the government will lean towards the Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) model for highway construction projects. InvITs serve as financial instruments designed to pool investments from various sources to fund infrastructure development.
Cost-Effective Construction: Minister Encourages Highway Contractors to Reduce Costs
In a bid to enhance efficiency, Gadkari urged highway contractors to focus on reducing construction costs while maintaining high-quality standards. The emphasis is on optimizing expenditure without compromising the overall quality of highway projects.
(With Agency Inputs)