GNSS Based Toll System: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced the introduction of a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based toll collection on select national highways, essentially phasing out the traditional toll methods. This is a significant step towards modernising India’s road infrastructure.
Pilot Projects and Stakeholder Consultations
Gadkari explained in his written response to the Rajya Sabha that two major highway segments—the Bengaluru-Mysore stretch of NH-275 in Karnataka and the Panipat-Hisar stretch of NH-709 in Haryana—had successfully undergone a pilot study of the GNSS-based toll system. On June 25, 2024, an international workshop included a stakeholder consultation to get a range of opinions and input. In addition, on June 7, 2024, a worldwide expression of interest (EOI) was released, requesting industrial consultations with a July 22, 2024, submission date.
Master Plan for National Highways
In addition, the minister outlined the road ministry’s overall master plan, which aims to improve logistics by building national highways. This plan, developed under the PM Gatishakti Framework, combines information from traffic surveys, tolls, and e-way bills (GST) to build high-speed highways and motorways. The primary objective of this concept, according to Gadkari, is to increase overall logistics efficiency and streamline transportation.
Delays in National Highway Projects
In response to queries on project delays, Gadkari disclosed that 697 national highway projects—mandated to begin around ten years ago—have completed ahead of schedule. The COVID-19 pandemic, heavy rains, floods, cyclones, landslides, avalanches, utility shifting, encroachment removal, law and order issues, financial difficulties faced by contractors, subpar contractor performance, and unforeseen events are some of the factors contributing to the delays.
Future Plans and Ongoing Efforts
To mitigate these delays and expedite construction, the ministry has lined up a series of projects currently in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and tendering stages, aiming to enhance progress during the current and next fiscal years.
Relief Operations in Uttarakhand
Gadkari also gave an update on the costs associated with the rescue and relief efforts at Uttarakhand’s Silkyara Tunnel, noting that ₹1.94 crore has been spent in order to pay off two debts. He mentioned that there are still some outstanding invoices, attributing the costs to the engineering firm that oversaw the activities.
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