The Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), a subsidiary of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has developed a GIS-based software for real-time monitoring of traffic at toll plazas, aiming to enhance the seamless movement of vehicles.

Initially, NHAI has identified approximately 100 toll plazas for live monitoring through this web-based software. These plazas were selected based on congestion feedback received via the 1033 National Highway helpline. The monitoring service will be gradually expanded to more toll plazas in phases, according to an official statement.

The software provides detailed information, including the name and location of each toll plaza, live queue length in meters, total waiting time, and vehicle speed at the toll plaza. It also offers congestion alerts and lane distribution recommendations when vehicle queues exceed prescribed limits.

The toll plazas have been mapped in the software to their respective NHAI field offices nationwide. The software will enable NHAI officials to analyse traffic conditions by providing comparative data on traffic queues and congestion on an hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly basis.

Additionally, the software will update NHAI officials on current weather conditions and local festivals, allowing for pre-emptive measures to manage traffic and reduce congestion at toll plazas.

This live monitoring system aims to ensure a smooth traffic flow and a hassle-free tolling experience for users across the country's national highways. (ET)