India’s First Stop-Free Toll System Launched by NHAI on NH-48 in Gujarat

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has implemented a Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system on the Surat-Bharuch stretch of NH-48 in Gujarat, as per ANI reports. 

The system has been deployed at the Chorayasi toll point, replacing conventional toll booths with a barrier-less setup. 

According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, over 41,500 vehicles passed through the location on the first day of operations. 

Barrier-Less System Replaces Toll Booths 

The MLFF system allows vehicles to move through toll points without stopping. Physical barriers have been removed, and there are no dedicated toll lanes requiring halts for payment. 

This change is intended to address long queues at toll plazas, which have been a regular feature on busy highway corridors. 

Digital Identification and Toll Collection 

Toll collection is carried out using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag-based systems. Vehicles are identified as they pass, and the toll is deducted electronically. 

There is no on-site manual verification. The process is managed through digital systems that track vehicle movement and process payments in the background. 

Payment Compliance and Notices 

Users are required to maintain valid FASTag accounts with sufficient balance. If a toll cannot be deducted due to insufficient funds or inactive tags, an electronic notice is issued. 

The pending amount must be paid within 72 hours. Failure to clear dues within this period results in a charge of twice the standard toll for the vehicle category. 

Penalties for Non-Payment 

If dues remain unpaid beyond the notice period, further action may follow. FASTag accounts can be blacklisted, and access to vehicle-related services through the VAHAN system may be restricted. 

The system relies on digital enforcement rather than physical intervention at toll locations. 

Read More: ₹2000 Notes Withdrawal Update: 98.47% Returned by April 2026! 

Conclusion 

The introduction of MLFF tolling on NH-48 represents a change in toll collection on a trial stretch. Further implementation across other highways is likely to depend on system performance and user compliance. 

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