Satellite-based toll tax: Toll plazas to be removed, relief to drivers
The Indian government is exploring a satellite-based toll collection system, eliminating toll plazas and charging drivers only for the distance they travel.
The government is considering introducing a "satellite-based toll collection system" or satellite-based toll tax for toll tax. Under this system, toll plazas will be removed and drivers will have to pay toll tax only for the distance they travel. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari gave this information in the Rajya Sabha.
How will it work?
Gadkari said that under this system, the vehicle's number plate will be photographed and the toll tax will be charged only for the distance traveled from the entry point to the exit point. This amount will be deducted from the driver's bank account. He said that efforts are being made to implement this system before the model code of conduct comes into force for the Lok Sabha elections in the country.
98.5% people used FASTag
Gadkari said that the average daily collection from toll booths is Rs 49,000 crore. He said that 98.5% people have used the FASTag system and 8.13 crore FASTags have been issued. Under this, an average of Rs 170 to 200 crore is collected as toll tax every day.
Accountability of BOT projects
In response to a question related to BOT projects, Gadkari said that when he took over as the Transport Minister, 406 projects worth Rs 3 lakh 85 thousand crore were lying closed and there was an NPA (Non-Performing Assets) of Rs 3 lakh crore in the banks. He said that a meeting of representatives of banks and experts was called under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a solution was found.
Work on improving road infrastructure for religious tourism
Gadkari said that all efforts are being made to provide good roads to the pilgrims going for religious tourism. He said that the Buddha Circuit was built at a cost of Rs 22,000 crore and connected with a four-lane road. Similarly, the Ayodhya Circuit was also built at a cost of Rs 30,000 crore.
Ropeway being built for connectivity to Hemkund Sahib
Gadkari said that a ropeway is being built for connectivity to Hemkund Sahib and it is also useful because it is very difficult to build roads in Himachal Pradesh.