Padma Bridge launches e-toll collection process on trial basis

A previous effort to install the automatic system did not work out, but a new pilot programme hopes to fix it

A modern, non-stop electronic toll collection (ETC) system has launched on Padma Bridge on a trial basis.

An ETC allows a customer to pay the toll automatically without stopping the vehicle when crossing the toll gate.

The system started operation from 2pm on Monday and will allow vehicles to cross the bridge by paying the toll automatically using the designated lane without stopping, according to a press release by the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges on Monday.

The automatic toll process can begin after registration on the TAP app and tag verification at the Mawa RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) booth, the notice said.

Masud Rana Sikder, spokesman for the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) said, "Live piloting has begun today. Tolls will be collected now. In addition, if anyone wants to do so, they can register for ETC there. However, in order to do this, the vehicle must have an approved RFID from BRTA (Bangladesh Road Transport Authority)."

The BBA had started collecting tolls in this manner on a test basis in 2023.

However, as it had not worked well at the time, a new pilot project is being conducted, Masud said.

"It was not working properly. There were some problems. That is why it has been restarted under the guidance of the advisor. Hopefully it will work properly now."