Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) barrier-less tolling system: reduces travel time and decongests highways

Key facts

• The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) operationalised India's first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) barrier-less tolling system at the Choryasi toll plaza on the Surat–Bharuch section of NH-48 in Gujarat on May 1, 2026.
• The MLFF system uses high-performance Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to read FASTag and Vehicle Registration Number, removing the need for boom barriers and vehicles to stop for toll collection.
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) issued new National Highway Fee rules for unpaid user fees: commuters must pay double the applicable toll amount, but if paid within 72 hours, only the original fee applies; an e-notice with vehicle details is issued, and a grievance redressal mechanism allows challenging the e-notice within 72 hours.
• Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) has awarded MLFF contracts for toll plazas at Gharaunda (Haryana), Boariach (Gujarat), Daulatpura, Manoharpura, Shahjahanpur (Rajasthan), Mundaka (Delhi), Nemili, Chenasamudram, Paranur (Tamil Nadu), Kasepalli, Amakathadu, Marur (Andhra Pradesh), Chalakwadi, Hiwargaon Pavsa (Maharashtra), and Badarpur Faridabad (Haryana); bids have been invited for an additional 108 fee plazas.
• According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, the MLFF is projected to be implemented across all four-lane and above national highways and expressways by March 2029.