November 07, 2007	Wednesday	Shawwal 25, 1428

ISLAMABAD, Nov 6: The National Highway Authority in collaboration with National Database and Registration Authority has introduced an automatic electronic toll system on motorways.

In first phase, the system will be available for motorists using Peshawar, Islamabad and Lahore toll plazas for both entry and exit. Later on, the system will be extended to all toll plazas located on other routes like M-1, M-2 and M-3.

An essential component of this system is an electronic tag that is now available free of cost from Peshawar, Islamabad and Lahore Toll Plazas. Those who want to secure the chip will be required to submit full particulars about their person, details of bank account and other information.

The NHA staff posted at the plazas for selling of the tag will register all such details in their system. Travellers will then be required to stick the chip on the top or front of their vehicles. The NHA computerised system will automatically read the chip when they pass through the toll plazas and let them pass by lifting the bar giving a green signal.

A very interesting feature of the new system is that the required amount would be electronically deducted from the bank account of the motorist. The e-toll will also have a fast tracking system installed which will detect wrong information givers. As such, in case there is no amount in the account of the person concerned the NHA electronic system will recognise it and signal stop by flashing the red light and the bar would not be lifted.

The newly-introduced e-toll will provide motorists and travellers a number of facilities. It will save time, spare motorists and transporters from standing in long queues for obtaining entry cards and payment of toll and also enable vehicles pass through toll plazas without stopping at the time of entry and exit on the motorways.