Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has revealed that a transformative toll policy is on the horizon, aiming to revolutionize the way toll charges are collected on Indian highways. Speaking at a public event on Monday, Gadkari said the government is set to unveil a new toll collection framework within the next two weeks.

“A new toll policy will be introduced soon by the central government. I won't go into the details right now, but within the next 15 days, the policy will be made public. Once it comes into effect, there will be no cause for complaints about toll collection,” Gadkari stated.

Toll Without Toll Booths: Satellite-Based Collection

The upcoming system is expected to eliminate the need for traditional toll booths. Instead, toll charges will be automatically debited from vehicle owners’ bank accounts through satellite-based tracking and number plate scanning technology.

Mumbai-Goa Highway to Open by June

During his address, the minister also provided an update on the long-awaited Mumbai-Goa highway project. Gadkari assured that the construction, which has faced repeated delays, will be fully wrapped up by June this year.

“This highway has faced numerous challenges, but I can confidently say that we will complete it 100 percent by this June,” he affirmed.

He attributed the prolonged delays to legal hurdles, land disputes, and disagreements among landowning families.

“There were family feuds, court cases, and significant complications in acquiring land and settling compensation. But all of that has now been resolved, and the work is progressing swiftly,” Gadkari said.

Once operational, the Mumbai-Goa highway is expected to significantly cut travel time and stimulate economic activity across the Konkan belt.

India’s Roads to Surpass U.S. Standards, Says Minister

Looking ahead, Gadkari expressed optimism about the future of the country’s road network. He predicted that within the next two years, India’s road infrastructure would surpass that of the United States in terms of quality and efficiency.

However, he acknowledged ongoing issues with certain highways, including the Delhi-Jaipur and Mumbai-Goa stretches.

“These routes are still problematic and are considered black spots in the department. The ground reality, particularly in regions like Konkan, is complex. If I were to be completely candid about the situation, it might be hard for people to accept,” he remarked.