Is GNSS replacing FASTag?

Yes, GNSS will gradually replace FASTag in India for toll collection using satellite-based tracking.

Which countries are GPS based toll collection?

Countries like Germany, Russia, and Singapore have adopted GPS-based toll collection for efficient road management.

Is India implement GNSS-based toll collection on highways and expressways?

Yes, India is set to implement GNSS-based tolling across highways and expressways to enable barrier-free travel.

Which company is making GNSS in India?

In India, companies like Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and IRNSS developers are involved in creating GNSS technology.

What is GPS based toll charges?

GPS-based toll charges calculate fees by tracking vehicle movement and distance travelled using satellite signals.

What is GNSS-based toll collection?

GNSS-based toll collection uses satellite navigation to automatically deduct toll charges based on vehicle distance.

What are the disadvantages of GNSS?

Disadvantages include high setup costs, dependency on satellite signals, and potential privacy or signal issues.

What is the full form of GNSS?

The full form of GNSS is Global Navigation Satellite System.

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What Is The GNSS Based Toll Collection?

Pragya Pathak

Author

Updated: 17-10-2025 at 5:30 AM

India is aiming to embrace a satellite navigation-driven toll collection method shortly. This progressive technology seeks to make transportation and travelling across India an easier and hassle-free activity. Recently, the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), a company promoted by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has invited global expressions of interest for the development and implementation of GNSS-based toll collection technology.

In this article, you will get the detailed information about the GNSS Based Electronic Toll Collection, Its benefits, implementation and much more.

Overview

Below is a quick snapshot of the GNSS toll initiative in India:

Particular	Details
System Name	GNSS-Based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC)
Promoting Agency	Indian Highways Management Company Ltd (IHMCL) under NHAI
Objective	Barrier-free tolling, distance-based charging, and reduced infrastructure costs
Initial Segment	Commercial & large vehicles
Integration Plan	Hybrid with the FASTag (RFID) system at the start
Target Coverage	4,000–5,000 km initially, then 10,000 km within 9 months
Expected Revenue	~₹10,000 crore per year (projections)
Current Status	EOI invited, technical workshops held
Global Examples	Germany, Russia, Slovakia

Latest News On Toll

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has actively solicited global firms to help shape India’s GNSS-based toll collection app and framework.
On June 25, 2024, IHMCL organised an international workshop in New Delhi, bringing together experts to discuss the proposed GNSS OBU for car India and its technical models.
The EOI also mandates that the GNSS-based toll collection app development and implementation align with the current FASTag ecosystem to ensure a smooth transition. With this, India prepares for the next phase of smart, GPS-based toll collection starting, ensuring efficiency and transparency in road tax management.

Also Read: Can You Cross Toll Booth For Free? Yes!

What Is a GNSS-Based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System?

A GNSS based toll collection system is a modern way of collecting tolls using satellite technology. It involves installing sensors or tracking devices inside vehicles that monitor movement and calculate toll charges based on the distance travelled. The employment of this system simplifies the tolling process and also averts the need to install and maintain roadside infrastructure, otherwise needed for toll collection.
It is a barrier-free mode of collection that ensures a seamless flow of traffic and minimum blockages on the roads. It tracks vehicle movement and calculates the deductible tax based on the distance covered or travelled. Advanced readers are equipped to read such sensors and deduct tax.

This method of tolling is currently in use in Germany, Russia and Slovakia, respectively. India is aiming to implement this method in furtherance of its vision of creating a developed India by 2047. The method will initially be implemented for commercial vehicles only.

Benefits of GNSS-Based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System

The government of India expects several long-term benefits from the Gnss based toll collection in India scheme:

Smooth Movement: The national highways will ensure a well-facilitated and hassle-free riding experience. The flow of traffic would be smooth.
Increase in Revenue: The government has predicted the generation of Rs 10,000 Crores in revenue from the implementation of the GNSS system. Leakages and thefts from the tolling systems would be entirely averted with its implementation.
Distance-based Tolling: The GNSS toll system price will depend on the distance travelled, making it fairer for taxpayers.

Also Read: The Future Of Toll Payments: Insights On The New FASTag Rules

Implementation Of GNSS-Based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System In India

The rollout of the GNSS-based toll collection system in India will occur in phases. Here’s how it will unfold:

It will initially be implemented for commercial and heavy vehicles, especially trucks and freight carriers.
The system will start by covering 4,000–5,000 km, expanding to 10,000 km within nine months and up to 50,000 km eventually.
It will work in integration with the current FASTag (RFID) system, where both will operate simultaneously for a hybrid transition model.
Dedicated GNSS lanes will be developed at toll points to reduce congestion and speed up travel.
The use of GNSS OBU for car India will become mandatory for new vehicles once the full implementation is in place.

With this, India is all set to modernise its highway infrastructure and lead toward a gps based toll collection start model, promoting efficiency and cost savings.

Also Read: NHAI To Track 100 Toll Plazas With GIS-based Software For Seamless Traffic Management

Need For GNSS-Based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System

India’s current toll mechanism, based on static toll booths and RFID cards, faces challenges: congestion, maintenance costs, and incremental infrastructure needs. A Gnss based toll collection app can resolve these issues by:

Minimising delays at toll plazas
Reducing physical infrastructure dependence
Enabling dynamic, fair distance-based pricing
Making cross-state tolling seamless and interoperable

This step aligns with India’s broader digital infrastructure goals and the Make in India initiative for high-tech transportation systems.

Conclusion

The implementation of GNSS-based toll collection marks a significant step in India’s journey towards a smarter and more equitable transport system. With better transparency, higher revenue, and smoother travel experiences, the GNSS-based toll collection in India will not only enhance road efficiency but also support sustainable economic growth.

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