Government to Introduce Satellite-Based Toll Collection System, Raises Privacy Concerns
In a significant move, Nitin Gadkari, the Minister for Road Transport and Highways, announced plans to replace the current toll collection system with a satellite-based alternative. Speaking to ANI, Gadkari stated that tolls would be calculated based on distance traveled and automatically deducted from bank accounts.
This isn`t the first time Gadkari has discussed such a system. Back in December 2020, he outlined plans to implement a GPS-based tolling system within two years. Despite delays, the proposal resurfaced in subsequent years, with assurances that toll booths would vanish within a year.
The proposed system, discussed in an NHAI workshop, involves GNSS technology, where virtual tolling points on highways calculate fees based on satellite signals. While this system aims to streamline toll collection, concerns over privacy have been raised. The data protection act allows exemptions for government surveillance, potentially exposing citizens to extensive monitoring without consent.
Additionally, questions remain about the fate of the existing FASTag system, which could become redundant under the new regime. The mandatory use of FASTags since January 2021 has already faced criticism for billing inaccuracies, raising doubts about the reliability of GPS tracking.
Moreover, the possibility of private companies operating the GNSS system adds another layer of complexity to data protection. While regulated by the DPDPA, exemptions could still permit government access to citizens` location data.
As the government proceeds with plans for a satellite-based tolling system, concerns regarding privacy and data protection must be addressed to ensure citizens` rights are upheld.
