In a recent update on the state of India’s National Highways (NHs), Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, highlighted significant measures aimed at improving infrastructure quality and user convenience across the country.
Under the current framework of the National Highways Fee Rules, user fee rates at fee plazas are applied in accordance with established guidelines. Maintenance and upkeep of NHs, encompassing bridges and associated structures, are managed through diverse contractual arrangements. These include Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts, Design Build Finance Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) or Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) contracts, as well as Toll Operate and Transfer (TOT) or Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) agreements. Additionally, Performance based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC) and Short-term Maintenance Contracts (STMC) play crucial roles in maintaining stretches of NHs.
To streamline user fee collection efficiency, the government has introduced several initiatives:
- FASTag Implementation: FASTag, a digital toll collection system, has been mandated for M&N categories of vehicles, ensuring seamless and rapid fee transactions.
- Universal FASTag Lanes: All lanes at fee plazas are designated as FASTag lanes, promoting smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion.
- One Vehicle One FASTag (OVOT): This initiative ensures that each vehicle is linked with a single FASTag, simplifying the toll payment process.
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): Integrated with the FASTag system, ANPR enhances transparency in fee collection across designated areas.
- GNSS-Based Tolling Pilot: A Global Expression of Interest (EOI) has been initiated to implement GNSS-based tolling systems on selected NH sections, enhancing tolling efficiency alongside FASTag.
Furthermore, Gadkari emphasized the importance of user feedback and grievance redressal mechanisms. Road users can lodge complaints regarding infrastructure or operational issues at NH fee plazas and report on highway road quality through the National Highways Authority of India’s toll-free helpline (1033) and the Rajmargyatra application. These platforms allow users to submit complaints with supporting evidence, track grievance status, and provide valuable feedback.
The government’s proactive measures aim not only to enhance highway infrastructure but also to ensure a smoother and more user-friendly experience for travelers across India’s extensive network of National Highways.
This statement was delivered by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in a written reply presented today in the Rajya Sabha, underscoring ongoing efforts to elevate the standards of India’s highway infrastructure.
