Bengaluru–Mysuru Highway Set for Barrier-Free Tolling as NHAI Plans MLFF Pilot

The **Bengaluru–Mysuru Access-Controlled Highway (NH-275) is set for a major technological upgrade as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) prepares to introduce a [Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF)](https://swarajyamag.com/news-brief/bengalurumysuru-highway-set-for-barrier-free-tolling-as-nhai-plans-multi-lane-free-flow-pilot-report#:~:text=The%20National%20Highways%20Authority%20of,away%20from%20conventional%20toll%20plazas.)* tolling system on the 117-kilometre stretch. According to a report by The Hindu*, the proposed initiative will mark a significant departure from conventional toll plazas, promising faster, smoother, and more fuel-efficient travel for commuters.

This pilot project aligns with NHAI’s broader push towards barrier-less electronic tolling across India’s national highways network, aimed at reducing congestion and improving the overall driving experience.

What Is Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) Tolling?

MLFF tolling eliminates the need for physical toll booths. Instead, toll collection is carried out through overhead gantries equipped with advanced technologies such as high-performance RFID FASTag readers, Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, and satellite-based GPS systems.

These systems automatically identify vehicles and deduct toll charges directly from linked FASTag or bank accounts, even when vehicles are moving at high speeds. As a result, motorists no longer need to slow down, stop, or queue at toll plazas, making tolling virtually invisible.

How the System Will Work on NH-275

Under the proposed pilot, overhead MLFF gantries will be installed along the Bengaluru–Mysuru highway. While the new systems will be operational, existing toll plazas will not be removed immediately. This hybrid approach will allow NHAI to test the accuracy and reliability of MLFF technology without disrupting current toll operations.

A senior NHAI official explained that the corridor will initially serve as a testing ground. The pilot phase will help authorities study key factors such as system accuracy, user compliance, enforcement challenges, and backend settlement processes before moving towards full-scale implementation.

Tender Process and Project Status

NHAI officials confirmed that the project will be awarded through a competitive tendering process. A tender has already been floated, bids have been received, and evaluations are currently underway. The selected firm will be responsible not only for installing the MLFF infrastructure but also for operating and maintaining the system.

This includes ensuring secure and timely transfer of toll revenues to linked bank accounts, maintaining data integrity, and managing system uptime across the busy highway.

Benefits for Motorists and the Environment

NHAI’s Regional Officer (Karnataka), Vilas P Brahmankar, described the initiative as a major step forward in electronic tolling. He noted that MLFF enables toll transactions through FASTag and vehicle registration number recognition using RFID readers and ANPR cameras.

According to officials, the shift to barrier-less tolling is expected to significantly reduce congestion, save travel time, improve fuel efficiency, and lower vehicular emissions. These benefits are especially important for the Bengaluru–Mysuru corridor, which experiences heavy daily traffic and severe congestion during weekends and holidays.

Learning from India’s First MLFF Project

India’s first MLFF system became operational in August 2025 at the Choryasi Fee Plaza on NH-48 in Gujarat. Officials there reported smoother traffic flow and reduced bottlenecks following its implementation. The success of the Gujarat project has encouraged NHAI to expand MLFF pilots to other high-traffic corridors, including the Bengaluru–Mysuru highway.

Lessons learned from earlier deployments will help refine enforcement mechanisms, grievance redressal systems, and interoperability with existing FASTag infrastructure.