Vehicles may pass toll points at 60 kmph without stopping as NHAI proposes MLFF technology at three plazas
Shimla/Mandi, August 21: Motorists travelling on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway may soon be able to pass through toll points without stopping, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) proposing to introduce Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) technology at three toll plazas in Himachal Pradesh.
Under the proposed system, toll barriers will be removed, allowing vehicles to pass through the tolling points at speeds of up to 60 kmph, subject to the prescribed speed limit on the four-lane highway. The toll amount will be automatically deducted from the vehicle owner’s FASTag account.
The NHAI has sent a proposal to its headquarters to introduce the technology at the Gada Mora, Takoli and Dohalunala toll plazas on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane.
No stopping, no toll queues
The MLFF system is designed to eliminate the need for vehicles to stop at toll barriers. Cameras, sensors and FASTag readers will identify vehicles as they pass through the tolling zone and automatically deduct the applicable amount.
The technology is expected to reduce waiting time and traffic congestion at toll plazas, while also helping cut fuel consumption and vehicle emissions.
The new system is likely to provide significant relief to tourists travelling to Kullu and Manali, particularly during peak holiday seasons when long queues are often seen at toll points.
AI cameras and sensors to identify vehicles
Under the proposed system, gantries around 5.5 to 6 metres high will be installed at the toll locations. These will be equipped with FASTag readers, AI-based Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and vehicle detection sensors.Once a vehicle is identified, the toll amount will be automatically deducted from the linked FASTag account.Vehicle owners will need to ensure that their FASTag has sufficient balance, remains active and is properly affixed to the windshield. Vehicles will also be required to have valid High Security Registration Plates (HSRP).
E-notice for inactive or low-balance FASTags
If a FASTag has insufficient balance or is inactive or invalid, an e-notice will be issued to the vehicle owner.According to the proposed system, motorists who clear the payment within 72 hours of receiving the e-notice will pay the normal toll amount. Payments made after the deadline may attract a charge equivalent to double the toll amount.
The payment and verification facility will be available through the NH Fee E-Notice Portal and the Rajmarg Yatra App.The existing toll pass facility will also continue, with a provision for around 200 trips at ₹3,000.
Speed limit to remain at 60 kmph
While MLFF technology in some parts of the country allows vehicles to pass tolling points at higher speeds, motorists on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane will have to follow the highway’s prescribed speed limit of 60 kmph.Vehicles exceeding the permitted speed may face an overspeeding challan, while those travelling within the speed limit will be able to pass through the MLFF tolling point without stopping.
“Currently, a proposal has been sent to implement MLFF technology at three toll plazas. The technology will also be introduced at other toll plazas in the future,” said Varun Chari, Project Director, NHAI PIU Mandi.The proposed introduction of barrier-free tolling is expected to mark the first major rollout of MLFF technology on a four-lane highway in Himachal Pradesh, promising faster and smoother travel for commuters and tourists.
