GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection System

Description

Image Credit: GNSS Consulting (gnss-consulting.com)

Context

Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), a company promoted by NHAI has invited Global Expression of Interest (EOI) from innovative and qualified companies to develop and implement Satellite-Based Toll Collection System in India/ GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection system in India.
EOI, or Expression of Interest, is a formal process used in various industries, to gauge the interest of potential buyers or investors in a particular project.

Objective:

The primary objective of this initiative is to provide a seamless and barrier-free tolling experience to users of National Highways.
The GNSS-based Electronic Tolling System is envisioned to streamline toll operations, reduce congestion, and improve the overall user experience.

Satellite-Based Electronic Toll Collection (GNSS)

Satellite technology enables toll collection across multiple lanes of free-flowing traffic without the need to change the speed or direction of the vehicles.
GNSS tolling provides flexibility for the implementation of new system extensions, allowing it to keep pace with changing requirements without the need for the construction of costly new infrastructure.

GNSS tolling, or Global Navigation Satellite System tolling, is a technology that utilises satellite positioning to collect tolls from vehicles based on their geographic location.
It enables precise, automated toll collection by accurately determining a vehicle's position and calculating toll charges accordingly.
This solution does not require the construction of toll gantries or toll plazas, so saves on time, costs and resources associated with a non-satellite-based tolling system.
Satellite-based tolling systems provide flexibility when changing the range of a toll road network by speeding up the process and removing the need for expensive and time-consuming roadside technology.
Satellite-based tolling is particularly effective in countries where the development of new toll roads is planned. GNSS tolling is based on cutting-edge, reliable and future-oriented technologies.
Following the effective integration of the satellite-based tolling solution, additional advantages can be unlocked through a range of value-added services like real-time traffic updates, automatic emergency notifications, and usage-based car insurance.
GNSS tolling introduces flexibility to defining toll rates based on several parameters and combinations.

GNSS Road Pricing:

GNSS road pricing, also known as GNSS-based tolling, utilizes Global Navigation Satellite System sensors within vehicles for charging road users.

This method simplifies distance-based tolling across various road types within a tolled network, eliminating the need for traditional toll infrastructure like tollbooths or gantries.

Equipped with an On-Board Unit (OBU), vehicles subject to distance-based fees can seamlessly participate in the system.

Satellite-based technology enhances toll revenue collection efficiency and reduces traffic congestion caused by drivers seeking alternative routes to avoid tolls.

Tolling all roads becomes feasible without the costly installation of roadside infrastructure, facilitating smoother traffic flow.

Implementation and Scope:

European countries like Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, Belgium, Russia, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria employ GNSS-based electronic tolling primarily for trucks weighing above 3.5 tons.

Privacy Concerns and Regulatory Framework:

Despite its advantages, GNSS-based tolling raises privacy concerns, with critics worrying about potential infringements on individuals' privacy.

The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), effective since May 25, 2018, offers a regulatory framework to address privacy issues associated with such technologies.

On-Board Unit (OBU)

An OBU is a device in a vehicle used to transmit and collect data for various applications. More specifically, an OBU (on-board unit) is an electronic device installed in a vehicle that records traffic and driving data and can connect to roadside and satellite navigation systems. They are generally used for the automated billing and recording of tolls, referred to as electronic toll collection (ETC), but can also be utilised for additional services. For instance, OBUs can be used for diagnostic and emergency data storage, route planning, and navigation. Additionally, they are capable of handling vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), and vehicle-to-roadside (V2R) communication

Implementation Plan for GNSS-Based ETC System

Hybrid Model:

Initially, the implementation will adopt a hybrid model, integrating both RFID-based and GNSS-based ETC technologies.
This approach ensures compatibility with the existing FASTag ecosystem while gradually transitioning to GNSS-based solutions.

What is FASTag?

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system introduced in India by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). It simplifies toll payments by enabling automatic deduction of charges, allowing vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping for cash transactions.

Utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, FASTag deducts toll fees from the linked bank account or prepaid wallet as the vehicle crosses the toll plaza. Notably, FASTags have no expiry date and can be used as long as they remain functional and unaltered.

The program is implemented by the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), in collaboration with the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), toll plaza concessionaires, FASTag issuer agencies, and select banks.

Benefits of FASTag:

Ease of Payment: Eliminates the need for cash transactions, saving time for commuters.
Improved Traffic Flow: Enables near non-stop movement of vehicles, leading to reduced fuel costs.
Online Recharge: Offers convenient online recharge options via various payment methods.
SMS Alerts: Provides real-time alerts for toll transactions and low balance.
Customer Online Portal: Facilitates easy management of FASTag accounts.
Long Validity: Each FASTag has a validity of 5 years.
Incentives: Users can enjoy a 10% cashback on toll payments made through FASTag.

Additional Benefits:

Environmental: Contributes to reduced air pollution and paper usage.
Social: Minimizes toll payment hassles and enables analytics for highway management.
Economic: Reduces management and monitoring efforts at toll plazas.

Lane Configuration:

Dedicated GNSS lanes will be designated at toll plazas to facilitate the smooth passage of vehicles equipped with GNSS-based ETC systems.
Over time, all lanes at toll plazas will be converted into GNSS lanes, ensuring comprehensive coverage and seamless integration.

Software Backbone:

The EOI specifically targets the identification of experienced companies capable of developing a robust and scalable Toll Charger Software.
This software will serve as the backbone for the implementation of the GNSS-based ETC system, providing essential functionalities for toll collection and management.

Complete Plan of Implementation:

The EOI invites proposals encompassing a comprehensive plan for the implementation of GNSS-based ETC across National Highways.
Interested companies are encouraged to provide insights, suggestions, and innovative approaches to optimize the deployment and operation of the system.

Benefits of GNSS-Based ETC System in India

Seamless Tolling Experience:

The introduction of GNSS-based ETC will eliminate barriers and facilitate the smooth flow of traffic at toll plazas, enhancing the overall commuting experience for highway users.

Distance-Based Tolling:

By leveraging advanced satellite technology, the GNSS-based system enables distance-based tolling, wherein users only pay for the stretch of the National Highway they traverse.

Efficient Toll Collection:

GNSS-based ETC not only improves the accuracy and efficiency of toll collection but also helps in curbing revenue leakages and deterring toll evaders, contributing to the financial sustainability of highway infrastructure projects.

Enhanced Commuter Experience:

Ultimately, the implementation of GNSS-based ETC will lead to smoother and more seamless journeys for commuters, promoting safety, convenience, and economic prosperity along India's National Highways.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the significance of implementing a Satellite-Based Toll Collection System in India. How does this technology contribute to the modernization of transportation infrastructure and the promotion of digital governance?