Surat: India’s first barrierless, multi-lane free flow (MLFF) tolling system has been officially implemented at the Choryasi toll plaza on NH-48 near Surat, marking a major shift toward seamless, stop-free highway travel. The system enables automatic toll collection without requiring vehicles to halt, making it the country’s first unmanned toll plaza model.

The lane-free tolling system, introduced by the National Highways Authority of India after a long trial period, allows vehicles to pass at normal speed while toll charges are deducted instantly through a FASTag-linked mechanism. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras scan vehicle registration plates, ensuring real-time, contactless transactions.

Amit Ranjan Chitranshi, Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), said, “This barrier-less tolling system, also known as multi-lane free flow, doesn’t require vehicles to stop. There are no barriers. Vehicles will pass under the gantry, and their toll will be deducted. All other rules governing fees are as per the National Highway Fee Rules, 2008.”

Stating that only the method of toll collection has changed, the officer said, “This system is an advanced version of the existing technology. Earlier also, RFID readers and cameras were installed at toll plazas, which scanned vehicles when they slowed down. In this new system, even if a vehicle passes through at over 120 kmph, these advanced RFID readers and cameras will be able to scan the number plate and FASTag.”

The technology relies on high-speed cameras and sensors mounted on overhead gantries. FASTag-enabled vehicles are detected instantly, while those without FASTag are identified through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, enabling direct deduction or issuance of e-challans.

The government plans to expand MLFF technology to other major corridors, including the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and gradually phase out physical toll booths in favour of barrierless and GPS-based tolling systems nationwide.

The system is monitored from a dedicated control room near the toll plaza and has been developed at an estimated cost of ₹16 crore. Large overhead arches equipped with high-speed scanners and around 30 advanced cameras, two per lane, have been installed. Monitoring is supported by LiDAR, radar, and antenna-based technologies, with technical assistance from a Taiwanese firm.

Authorities say the MLFF model will significantly cut travel time and fuel consumption, while improving traffic flow and commuter convenience on busy highway corridors. DeshGujarat