Electronic toll collection will soon become a reality with tests currently being carried out at 33 plazas in the State.
“Equipment to scan radio frequency identity cards has been installed at the plazas. Transfer of funds from the banks to the concessionaires (the firm holding the rights) is being tested. The system is expected to be completed by the month-end,” explained V. Chinna Reddy, Chief General Manager (technical), National Highways Authority of India.
Of the 40 tolls, equipment is yet to be installed at Paranur, Athur, Tiruchi, Karaikudi, Tirunelveli, Tuticorin and Tirupathi. ICICI and Axis Banks are in the process of setting up counters to sell recharge coupons and the radio frequency identity (RFID) tags that will be affixed on the vehicles.
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“If there is no balance in the RFID tags, the gates at the plaza – boom barriers will not open. Electronic tolling will reduce waiting time at plazas and lead to fuel savings. This will also ensure that there is no over-charging by the concessionaires. One lane will be dedicated to vehicles with RFID tags at all toll plazas. Frequent travellers and heavy vehicles can avail these cards,” Mr. Reddy explained.