NHAI Plans Barrier-Free Tolling at 200 Plazas with MLFF Rollout in FY27

India’s highway tolling system is set for a major transformation as the National Highways Authority of India prepares to expand barrier free toll collection across the country. The initiative will be implemented through Indian Highways Management Company Ltd, the technology arm promoted by NHAI.

According to officials, tenders will be issued in FY27 for the deployment of Multilane Free Flow tolling systems at more than 200 toll plazas across the national highway network. The tenders are expected to be released in bundles, with each bundle covering around 10 to 12 toll plazas. This approach will allow faster scaling of the system across multiple locations.

The Multilane Free Flow system enables vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping at physical barriers. Instead of manual toll booths, the system uses high performance RFID readers to detect FASTag details along with Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras that identify vehicle registration numbers. These technologies together ensure seamless toll transactions while vehicles remain in motion.

The implementation of MLFF tolling is part of the government’s larger strategy to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion at toll plazas and enhance toll revenue efficiency. The system also supports the vision of building a smarter and digitally integrated highway network across India.

Pilot projects are already in advanced stages. MLFF based tolling systems are being implemented at Choryasi Fee Plaza in Gujarat on National Highway 48 and Gharaunda Fee Plaza in Haryana on National Highway 44. Final site acceptance testing is currently underway and the systems are expected to become operational soon.

For FY26, NHAI has already initiated the rollout of MLFF systems at around 25 toll plazas, with contracts awarded for 16 locations. The long term objective is to implement the barrier free tolling technology across all national highways with more than four lanes by June 2028.

To strengthen compliance, the government has also amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to link unpaid highway toll fees with vehicle related services. This means ownership transfers, vehicle fitness certification and national permits may be restricted if outstanding toll dues remain unpaid.

With these steps, the MLFF system is expected to significantly modernize India’s tolling infrastructure while improving efficiency, transparency and highway travel experience.