LAHORE: (HRNW) The Punjab Highway Department has officially decided to transition all 41 manual toll plazas across the province to a digital collection system. This initiative aims to eliminate systemic corruption, prevent overcharging of motorists, and ensure complete transparency in revenue collection. The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, chaired by Provincial Minister for Communications and Works (C&W) Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth.
Key Features of the Digitalization Plan:
-
Phased Rollout: All 41 operational toll plazas under the Highway Department will be upgraded to electronic toll collection systems in distinct phases.
-
Real-Time Monitoring: A modern digital dashboard will be introduced to provide real-time data on cash collection and traffic flow, reducing the risk of manual errors and financial leakages.
-
M-Tag Integration: As part of the upgrade, M-Tag facilities will be installed at these locations, bringing the provincial highway network in line with the standards used on national motorways.
-
Zero-Tolerance Policy: Minister Bharth issued strict directives to the department, stating that overcharging will not be tolerated. He ordered a crackdown and the registration of legal cases against any staff or contractors found involved in such practices.
This move is part of the broader “Digital Punjab” vision, which has already reportedly saved the province over 40 billion rupees through e-tendering and automated procurement systems. The provincial government expects the transition to significantly improve the travel experience for citizens while maximizing the provincial treasury’s revenue from road infrastructure.
Modernizing public infrastructure through digital transparency is a key pillar of economic growth. To support our mission of providing verified reporting on governance and infrastructure development in Punjab, please consider contributing to our work at hrnww.com/support-us.
