Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that by December 2025, toll plazas across India’s national highways will achieve zero waiting time. Leveraging AI-driven multi-lane free flow (MLFF) systems, ANPR cameras, and FASTag integration, the initiative aims to eliminate queues, save fuel, reduce congestion, and modernize India’s highway infrastructure.
At the India Economic Conclave (IEC) 2025, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari unveiled a transformative plan: by December 2025, motorists will no longer face delays at toll plazas. The government is rolling out a fully automated toll collection system designed to ensure seamless passage across national highways.
The system will rely on Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, FASTag-linked accounts, and AI-based highway management technology. Vehicles will be able to zip through toll points without stopping, with charges deducted digitally. Gadkari emphasized that this upgrade will not only improve commuter convenience but also generate significant economic benefits.
Major Takeaways
Zero Waiting Time: Toll plazas to operate without queues by December 2025.
Technology Backbone: ANPR cameras, FASTag, and AI-driven MLFF systems.
Economic Impact: Expected savings of ₹1,500 crore in fuel annually and increased revenue of ₹6,000 crore.
Nationwide Rollout: Over 1,000 toll plazas to be upgraded within a year.
Commuter Benefits: Reduced congestion, smoother travel, and enhanced efficiency for daily commuters and long-distance travelers.
Conclusion
With this ambitious initiative, India’s highways are set to become smarter, faster, and more efficient, marking a major leap in infrastructure modernization. Gadkari’s promise of zero waiting time could redefine road travel, making toll queues a relic of the past.
Sources: Times Now, India TV News, NewsBytes.