Kannur: A GPS and camera-based system to collect tolls based on the distance traveled is set to be implemented on National Highway-66 in Kerala. Even if the number of entry and exit points to the national highway increases, there will be no revenue loss for the government. Evading toll payment will no longer be possible. However, tolls will be charged only for the distance traveled. A key advantage of the GPS and camera technology is that vehicles won't need to stop anywhere to pay the toll.

The system uses an onboard unit or tracking device installed in vehicles through the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The location of vehicles will be tracked using GPS trackers, and the kilometers traveled will be calculated via satellite. The toll amount will then be deducted from the user’s account. To ensure accurate signals, the GAGAN system (GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation) will also be employed. Vehicle owners will need to install the onboard unit for the GPS system. Discussions are underway to include this system in new vehicles that are being manufactured. Some national highways have already begun trial runs of toll collection using number plate recognition cameras.

Toll collection via cameras to be developed by KELTRON

KELTRON is exploring the implementation of a toll collection system using number plate recognition cameras. This system uses ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras to identify vehicle number plates and record their locations and other details. KELTRON is responsible for the AI camera technology already operational on Kerala's roads. These cameras can accurately capture vehicle number plates, and KELTRON aims to integrate this capability into the toll collection system as well.

Numerous entry points

National Highway-66, which runs from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram, has entry and exit points every one to five kilometers. National highway and service road will be connected within one kilometer to five kilometers, allowing easy access and exit on both sides of the road.