Toll plazas form part of the growing national highway system in India, and they contribute to the construction, maintenance, and upgrading of roads and other infrastructure. Nevertheless, it is possible to find confusion and disagreements at the toll booths because of the lack of knowledge about the rules, FASTag use, and the rights of motorists, making this issue one of the Top Stories for frequent highway users. To simplify the process of collecting the tolls and lessen congestion, the government has offered clear rules that determine the operation of the toll plazas and the behavior of the drivers as they pass through the toll plazas. The toll plaza rules in India are not only important to every motorist in order to be able to avoid the fines and wastage of time, but also to be treated fairly and be able to enjoy a better and safer ride on the highways.
Most Important Toll Plaza Rules in India
The use of FASTag, which is an electronic toll collection rule on Indian national highways, is one of the most significant toll plaza rules in India. Congestion Vehicles without a valid FASTag can be subject to twice the relevant toll fee. FASTag lanes are well indicated, and the motorists are supposed to use the right lane lest they cause traffic jams.
Waiting time at the toll plazas is also subject to strict rules. When a vehicle must not pass, exceeding the allowed time, which is usually not less than 10 seconds during the peak time, the motorists are allowed to pass without paying the toll. On the same note, when the line of cars is longer than a certain distance, the operators of the tolls should be allowed to raise the barrier temporarily until the traffic has been reduced.
The other important requirement is lane discipline. Drivers are expected to adhere to signage, keep a safe distance, and not make sudden lane changes at the toll booths. Speeding, honking, or fighting with the toll staff can draw fines or litigation. There are exemption of toll charges to emergency vehicles like ambulances, fire engines, and some vehicles of the government, which must be allowed to pass.
Privileges and Liabilities of Drivers in Toll Gates
Toll collection needs to be transparent to motorists. The price of the tolls should be conspicuously displayed at each of the plazas, and one-way, return, and monthly pass rates should be indicated. The drivers can also request a receipt for all toll payments made through the FASTag or cash (where allowed).
Meanwhile, the drivers have a role to play. It is necessary to remember to keep the FASTag balance high enough, to make sure that the tag is well fixed, and to cooperate with the toll staff so as to avoid disputes. Any actions such as damaging toll property, trying to escape payment, or abusing exemption lanes may lead to fines or criminal prosecution.
Motorists may also complain via their FASTag issuer or the official highway helpline in case of wrong deductions or FASTag issues. Driving in India will enable you to enforce your rights as a driver, but at the same time, play your part to ensure that there are fewer accidents and that the highway is managed well, hence increasing the ease of traffic in the country.
