No Barriers, No Waiting: India’s First Barrier Free Toll System Goes Live Between Surat–Bharuch

India's first barrier-free multi-lane toll system has officially gone live between Surat and Bharuch in Gujarat from May 1, 2026. The Choryasi toll plaza has become the first in the country to adopt this advanced toll collection technology.

India's First Barrier-Free Toll System Goes Live

The new Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll system aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve travel efficiency on highways. This system has been under discussion for several months and is now operational, marking a major step forward in India's highway infrastructure.

The project was inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, at the Choryasi toll plaza on NH-48, a key stretch connecting Surat and Bharuch.

How the MLFF System Works

Unlike traditional toll plazas, the MLFF system eliminates physical barriers entirely. Vehicles can pass through at regular speeds without stopping, ensuring seamless traffic flow.

The system uses advanced technologies such as RFID readers and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras. These systems identify the vehicle and automatically deduct the toll amount from the linked FASTag account.

Once the transaction is completed, vehicle owners receive a notification confirming the toll deduction. This eliminates waiting time at toll booths and reduces congestion, making highway travel faster and more efficient.

Benefits for Commuters

The introduction of the MLFF system builds upon the existing FASTag infrastructure, which already reduced waiting times at toll plazas. With barrier-free tolling, travel becomes even smoother and more convenient. Additionally, the system contributes to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions by eliminating idling at toll booths, making it more environmentally friendly.

Penalties and Compliance

To ensure smooth operation, authorities have introduced strict rules for defaulters. If a FASTag-linked account has insufficient balance, the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) will issue a notice to the vehicle owner, providing a 72-hour window to clear dues.

Failure to comply within this period will result in penalties, including double toll charges. Defaulters may also face restrictions such as denial of No Objection Certificates (NOC) for vehicle renewal or ownership transfer.

Expansion Plans

Following its successful rollout in Gujarat, the MLFF system is expected to be expanded to other states, including Haryana, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. This initiative marks a significant step towards modernising India's highway infrastructure, offering faster, smarter, and more efficient toll collection for the future.