NHAI sets uniform design for barrier-free toll plazas on four-lane highways and above

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued standard design rules for toll plazas on four-lane and wider highways so that barrier-free tolling can be rolled out widely.

The guidelines cover Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling, which collects tolls without vehicles stopping at booths. NHAI says the aim is to end queues and waiting time, cut fuel use at toll plazas and make highway journeys safer and smoother.

What the guidelines set

The policy circular lays down uniform requirements for plaza layout, number of tolling lanes, gantries, road-safety features, signage and lighting. Because vehicles do not stop, fewer lanes are needed than at conventional plazas. It also provides for an administrative building-cum-operations and maintenance centre, and for lighting, advance signage and Electronic Variable Message Signs.

Which projects are covered

The rules apply to all future and under-construction projects. Projects at the Detailed Project Report stage will include the new design in their documents. Projects already awarded or under construction will adopt the changes through contractual provisions. NHAI field offices have been told to include the requirements in upcoming projects and facilitate adoption in ongoing ones.

The release gives no date for nationwide rollout of barrier-free tolling.

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Source: official release by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, issued through the Press Information Bureau, Government of India (06 NOV 2026 5:13PM by PIB Delhi). Read the full official text: NHAI Guidelines to Standardise Design and Infrastructure for Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling on Four-Lane and Above National Highways.