Punjab to Install 38 Digital Toll Plazas for Transparent Revenue Collection

Punjab is set to take a major step toward modern infrastructure with the installation of 38 digital toll plazas across 24 districts. The project, led by the Works and Communications Department, aims to replace outdated manual toll collection with a fully electronic system.

The plan was approved during a recent meeting chaired by Provincial Minister for Works and Communications. Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharath, where officials provided a detailed presentation on the initiative. The move will not only improve efficiency but also enhance transparency in toll revenue collection.

Under the new system, an electronic toll collection (ETC) process will be introduced. Vehicles will be verified automatically through sensors, cameras, and digital scanning tools. This technology will ensure that toll payments are recorded instantly and accurately, reducing manual handling and minimizing the risk of corruption or revenue leakage.

Minister Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharath said that the digitization process will be implemented in stages. Toll plazas in Attock, Bahawalpur, Khushab, Gujrat, Chakwal, Sargodha, Murree, Okara, Layyah, Lodhran, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Mianwali, Narowal, Hafizabad, Khanewal, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Sahiwal, Vehari, and Gujranwala will all be included in the project.

Officials noted that this transition will make toll operations faster and smoother. Drivers will be able to pass through checkpoints without long waits, as payments will be deducted automatically. The department believes this will also help in traffic management and reduce fuel wastage at busy toll points. More details about electronic toll systems can be found on Wikipedia.

Experts say the move reflects Punjab’s growing focus on digital governance and smart infrastructure. Several other provinces are expected to adopt similar systems once the project proves successful. The introduction of digital toll plazas will also make it easier to collect real-time data on vehicle flow, helping the government plan better road maintenance and expansion projects. Read more about Pakistan’s digital infrastructure goals on Dawn.

Officials emphasized that transparency is at the heart of the project. With automated toll data and direct digital records, there will be fewer chances for errors or manipulation. This aligns with the government’s broader digital transformation agenda to strengthen accountability in public services. To understand how digital infrastructure supports national development, visit BBC.

As work begins across Punjab, the new toll system promises a modern and efficient travel experience. It represents a shift toward innovation, transparency, and ease for millions of daily commuters using provincial highways.