India launched its first barrier-free Multi-Lane Free Flow tolling system at the Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch section of NH-48 in Gujarat. The system uses ANPR cameras and FASTag technology for automatic toll deduction without stopping vehicles. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
The project was launched by the National Highways Authority of India under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. It marks India’s transition towards fully digital and contactless highway toll collection.
MLFF technology enables uninterrupted vehicle movement by combining Automatic Number Plate Recognition with RFID-based FASTag infrastructure. Physical toll barriers and manual toll booths are removed under the new framework.
NH-48 is among India’s busiest economic corridors connecting Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Faster toll clearance is expected to improve freight movement and logistics efficiency across western India.
According to NHAI, nearly 41,500 vehicles crossed the MLFF corridor on the first operational day. The system significantly reduced congestion and vehicle idling time at the toll location.
The barrier-free system is expected to lower fuel consumption and vehicular emissions. Reduced stoppage time will also decrease travel delays and operational costs for transport operators.
Vehicles without valid FASTag balance or proper registration details receive electronic notices. Persistent non-payment may lead to penalties, FASTag suspension, and restrictions on vehicle-related services.
The government plans to expand barrier-less tolling across all major four-lane national highways by 2029. Earlier satellite-based tolling proposals were reconsidered due to privacy and implementation concerns.
FASTag, introduced nationally in 2015, uses Radio Frequency Identification technology for electronic toll collection. MLFF represents the next phase of India’s intelligent transport infrastructure modernisation.
Expected Current Affairs Questions for UPSC CDS NDA and AFCAT Written Exam
Q1. India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow barrier-free tolling system was launched on which National Highway?
A. NH-44
B. NH-16
C. NH-48
D. NH-27
Answer: C. NH-48
Explanation: India’s first MLFF tolling system was launched at the Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch stretch of NH-48 in Gujarat.
Q2. The MLFF tolling system primarily uses which technologies?
A. GPS and LiDAR
B. FASTag and ANPR
C. INSAT and RFID
D. Blockchain and AI
Answer: B. FASTag and ANPR
Explanation: The system combines RFID-based FASTag and Automatic Number Plate Recognition for seamless toll deduction.
Q3. FASTag is based on which technology?
A. Near Field Communication
B. Bluetooth Low Energy
C. Radio Frequency Identification
D. Infrared Transmission
Answer: C. Radio Frequency Identification
Explanation: FASTag uses RFID technology for automatic electronic toll collection on Indian highways.
Also Check: Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
Also Read: Important NCERT Notes for UPSC CDS NDA CAPF AC and AFCAT Written Exam
