Introduction

The introduction of new toll points on highways and roads is governed by a structured set of criteria designed to balance infrastructure funding, road maintenance, and public convenience. Tolling is an essential mechanism for recovering investment costs in road construction and maintenance, especially under Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and national infrastructure programs. However, establishing a toll point requires thorough evaluation to ensure economic feasibility, legal compliance, and minimal public resistance. This article outlines the key criteria considered by authorities before implementing new toll collection points.

Minimum Distance Requirements

One of the fundamental criteria for setting up a new toll point is maintaining a minimum inter-toll distance. As per guidelines by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), toll plazas on national highways must be at least 60 kilometers apart, except in hilly or urban areas where geographical or logistical constraints apply.

Length and Type of Road

Tolling is generally applied to roads with a minimum length of 5 kilometers for standalone stretches and is more commonly implemented on newly constructed or upgraded four-lane or six-lane highways. Two-lane roads may also be tolled if they are developed under PPP models and meet quality and safety benchmarks.

Project Funding Model

New toll points are introduced based on the funding model used for road construction. Projects built under Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), or Toll-Operate-Transfer (TOT) models involve cost recovery through tolling. Roads developed entirely through government funding may or may not involve tolls, depending on policy decisions.

Traffic Volume and Economic Viability

Authorities conduct traffic studies to assess Average Daily Traffic (ADT) and vehicle type distribution. A road section must show sufficient vehicle volume to justify tolling, ensuring that revenue collected covers operational costs and provides returns to developers or the state.

Public Utility and Strategic Importance

New toll points are often considered for roads that connect important economic zones, industrial corridors, ports, or tourism hubs. Roads that significantly decongest traffic or reduce travel time for long-distance freight and passenger movement are prioritized for tolling due to their high utility value.

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

Before finalizing a toll point, an environmental and social impact assessment is usually carried out. This process ensures that the tolling infrastructure does not unduly affect local communities, ecologically sensitive areas, or essential public services like schools and hospitals.

Right of Way and Land Availability

The availability of land for constructing toll plazas, service lanes, and associated infrastructure is a critical prerequisite. Authorities ensure that adequate Right of Way (RoW) is available, and that land acquisition (if required) complies with legal and rehabilitation norms.

Technological Readiness

New toll points are now expected to incorporate digital tolling infrastructure such as FASTag systems, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), CCTV surveillance, and data management tools. Technological preparedness is a must for efficient and transparent operations.

Legal and Policy Compliance

Toll point implementation must adhere to the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules and respective State Toll Acts. Concession agreements signed with developers clearly outline tolling rights, conditions, and enforcement responsibilities.

Public Consultation and Notification

In many cases, especially for state and municipal roads, authorities conduct public hearings or consultations before introducing a toll point. The final decision is published via official gazette notifications, and signage is installed well in advance to inform commuters.

Safety and Infrastructure Standards

The road section intended for tolling must meet safety, signage, lighting, and surface quality standards set by the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) or relevant authorities. Inadequate infrastructure can delay or disqualify toll implementation.

Conclusion

The criteria for introducing new toll points are comprehensive and multi-dimensional, ensuring that tolling is both justified and sustainable. By evaluating traffic, funding, safety, environmental impact, and legal frameworks, authorities aim to strike a balance between development and public interest. When implemented with transparency and fairness, new toll points can support high-quality infrastructure and long-term economic growth.

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