Daily Current Affairs : 5-September-2024
India is introducing a new toll collection system known as the GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system. This system uses satellite technology to automatically calculate toll fees based on the distance travelled by vehicles, eliminating the need for physical toll booths and reducing traffic delays at toll plazas. The aim is to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and make the toll collection process more efficient.
How the GNSS-based ETC System Works
The GNSS-based ETC system operates using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology, which is similar to the GPS used in smartphones and navigation devices. Here’s how it works:
- Satellite Positioning: The system tracks the vehicle’s location in real-time using satellite signals.
- Distance-Based Charges: Toll charges are calculated based on the distance the vehicle travels on highways, rather than fixed fees at toll booths.
- No Stopping at Toll Plazas: Unlike traditional toll systems where vehicles must stop and pay, the GNSS system allows vehicles to pass through toll plazas without halting, speeding up traffic flow.
Phased Implementation and Integration with FASTag
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has already started implementing the GNSS-based tolling system at 100 toll plazas across India. In the initial phase, the new system will operate alongside the existing FASTag system. Vehicles with FASTags will still use dedicated lanes, while new GNSS-based lanes will be introduced for vehicles equipped with GNSS devices.
- Phase 1: GNSS-based tolling will work alongside FASTag.
- Phase 2: Over time, the entire tolling system will shift to GNSS-based technology, eliminating the need for FASTags.
Benefits of GNSS-based ETC System
The new toll collection system promises several advantages:
- Faster Travel: Vehicles won’t have to stop, reducing delays at toll plazas.
- Efficient Toll Collection: Charges are automatically calculated based on distance, making the process more transparent.
- Reduced Congestion: By eliminating the need to stop at toll booths, the system helps reduce traffic jams and smoothen highway travel.
- Real-time Monitoring: MoRTH has developed software to monitor traffic congestion at toll plazas, helping manage the flow of vehicles and reduce wait times.
Important Points:
How the GNSS-based ETC System Works:
- Utilizes Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology, similar to GPS.
- Satellite Positioning: Tracks vehicle location in real-time using satellite signals.
- Distance-Based Charges: Toll fees are based on the distance travelled, not fixed fees at toll booths.
- No Stopping at Toll Plazas: Vehicles pass toll plazas without stopping, reducing delays and improving traffic flow.
Phased Implementation and Integration with FASTag:
- The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is rolling out the GNSS-based tolling system at 100 toll plazas.
- Phase 1: GNSS-based tolling operates alongside the FASTag system.
- Phase 2: Over time, the entire tolling system will shift to GNSS-based technology, eliminating the need for FASTags.
Benefits of GNSS-based ETC System:
- Faster Travel: Reduces delays as vehicles don’t need to stop at toll booths.
- Efficient Toll Collection: Charges are automatically calculated based on distance, improving transparency.
- Reduced Congestion: Helps reduce traffic jams by allowing vehicles to pass through toll plazas without halting.
- Real-time Monitoring: MoRTH has developed software to monitor traffic congestion and manage vehicle flow at toll plazas.
Why In News
The introduction of the GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system in India aims to eliminate delays at toll plazas by allowing vehicles to pass without stopping, thereby improving traffic flow and reducing congestion. This system will gradually replace the current FASTag system, offering a more seamless and efficient toll collection process across the country.
MCQs about GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) in India
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What is the primary goal of the GNSS-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system in India?
A. To reduce fuel consumption on highways
B. To eliminate delays at toll plazas and improve traffic flow
C. To increase toll fees for all vehicles
D. To replace all toll booths with physical barriers
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How does the GNSS-based ETC system calculate toll charges for vehicles?
A. By calculating tolls based on the vehicle’s weight
B. By calculating tolls based on the number of toll booths passed
C. By calculating tolls based on the distance travelled using satellite positioning
D. By calculating tolls based on the vehicle’s speed
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In the initial phase of implementation, how will the GNSS-based ETC system operate alongside the existing FASTag system?
A. Both systems will be used simultaneously, with vehicles choosing either system at toll plazas
B. Vehicles with FASTags will use dedicated lanes, while GNSS lanes will be introduced for vehicles with GNSS devices
C. The GNSS system will replace FASTag entirely from day one
D. Vehicles will need both FASTag and GNSS devices to pass through toll plazas
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What is one of the benefits of the GNSS-based ETC system?
A. It will require vehicles to stop at toll plazas for payment
B. It eliminates the need for satellite signals for toll calculation
C. It helps reduce traffic congestion by allowing vehicles to pass toll plazas without stopping
D. It will increase the cost of toll collection
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