Over 83% of vehicles passed without stopping at NHAI's new Paranur toll system
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)· Prelims·
Infrastructure and Digital Governance: A case study on enhancing logistical efficiency and reducing congestion.
Why in news
NHAI launched a multi-lane free flow, barrier-free toll system at the Paranur plaza to reduce congestion on the Chennai-Tiruchi National Highway.
Background
In October, 19,18,967 vehicles crossed the Paranur plaza, with over 83% of vehicles with sufficient balance and clear windshields passing without stopping. Vehicles with insufficient FASTag balances face blacklisting and e-challans, while those without FASTags are blocked in the Vahan portal.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyNHAI: National Highways Authority of India
- FactOver 83% of vehicles passed without stopping at Paranur plaza in the past month
- Fact19,18,967 vehicles crossed the Paranur plaza in October
- FactVehicles without FASTags are blocked in the Vahan portal from availing RTO services
- FactVehicles with insufficient balance are stopped at the next plaza and charged double
Prelims practice question
With reference to the multi-lane free flow toll system at Paranur plaza, consider the following statements:
- Vehicles without FASTags are blocked in the Vahan portal from availing RTO services.
- Over 95% of vehicles passed without stopping at the Paranur plaza in October.
- Vehicles with insufficient FASTag balances are allowed to pass without any penalty.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only — Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: Over 83% of vehicles passed without stopping. Statement 3 is incorrect: Vehicles with insufficient balance are stopped at the next plaza and charged double.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the implementation of barrier-free toll systems and integrated digital portals like Vahan contribute to enhancing logistical efficiency and reducing carbon footprints in India's highway infrastructure.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Logistical efficiency: Reduction in idling time at toll plazas minimizes fuel wastage and transit delays.
- Digital integration: Linking FASTag data with Vahan portal ensures automated enforcement and prevents regulatory evasion.
- Revenue leakage: Automated e-challans and double-charge mechanisms mitigate instances of toll evasion.
Keywords: Infrastructure · Logistics · Digital Governance · FASTag · Vahan Portal · Multi-lane Free Flow
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