The Paranur toll plaza in Tamil Nadu transitioned to a barrier-free system on October 1, removing physical barriers for passing vehicles.

The change aims to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow for commuters on the busy corridor. Barrier-free tolling uses automatic number-plate recognition and FASTag-based deduction without requiring vehicles to stop.

Commuters have long complained about queues at toll plazas during peak hours. Officials expect the new system to cut waiting times significantly.

The Paranur plaza is among the early adopters of fully barrier-free operations in the state. Transport authorities are watching its performance as a model for other plazas.

Officials reminded vehicle owners to keep FASTag accounts funded and number plates legible to avoid penalties under the automatic system.

The move aligns with the national push toward seamless electronic toll collection on highways, reducing fuel wastage and travel time. Highway authorities said barrier-free plazas will be rolled out in phases across the state after reviewing Paranur’s performance.