NHAI Launches Tamil Nadu’s First Barrierless MLFF Tolling System

The National Highways Authority of India introduced Tamil Nadu’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system on 1 October 2026 at the Paranur Toll Plaza on the Tambaram–Tindivanam section of NH-179B. The barrier-less system allows vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping and uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag-based Electronic Toll Collection.

Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling

Multi-Lane Free Flow tolling is a road-user charging system in which toll collection takes place without physical barriers at the plaza. The system uses electronic identification of vehicles through FASTag and camera-based number plate recognition.

Technology Used in the System

ANPR cameras read vehicle registration numbers and serve as a backup when FASTag detection fails. FASTag uses Radio Frequency Identification technology for electronic toll payment on national highways in India.

Operational Features and User Requirements

Motorists using the MLFF system must keep a functional FASTag with sufficient balance to avoid an Electronic Notice (E-Notice). The system is designed to reduce congestion, improve travel time, increase fuel efficiency, and lower vehicular emissions by removing the need for vehicles to stop at toll plazas.

Important Facts for Exams

• Paranur Toll Plaza is located on the Tambaram–Tindivanam section of NH-179B in Tamil Nadu.
• FASTag is an electronic toll collection system used on national highways in India.
• ANPR stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition and uses cameras to identify vehicle registration numbers.
• NHAI has already implemented MLFF-based tolling in parts of Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, and Haryana.

Expansion of MLFF Tolling in India

NHAI is rolling out MLFF-based tolling in phases across national highways. After Paranur, the system is planned for Nemili and Chennasamudaram on the Chennai–Bengaluru Highway, and bids have been invited for the Chennai Bypass.