The Padma Bridge has commenced the trial phase of its Electronic Toll Collection System (ETCS) on Wednesday. Out of the total 17 booths, 14 have been integrated with the automatic toll collection system.
Additionally, the Padma Bridge Traffic Monitoring Center was inaugurated at the Mawa end, facilitating real-time monitoring of traffic movement on the bridge. Utilizing the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) method, tolls can now be collected from vehicles while they are in motion. As a registered vehicle approaches the toll plaza, the scanner at booth number-1 identifies the vehicle automatically.
Md Monjur Hossain, Secretary of the Bridges Division, experienced the new smart toll payment method by crossing the toll plaza and making the payment around 10:30 am. Md Monjur Hossain highlighted the introduction of two additional smart toll collection booths on both sides of the bridge, bringing the total number of toll booths under the electronic toll collection system to 14 out of 17.
To facilitate the registration process for ETCS, a dedicated registration booth has been established on the east side of the Padma Bridge, near the Uttar Police Station at Mawa end. Once fully implemented, this system aims to minimize waiting times for vehicles and alleviate traffic congestion at toll plazas.
However, it should be noted that three booths – booth no. 8 at the Mawa end and booths no. 8 and no. 9 at the Zajira end of the bridge – will continue to collect tolls manually from motorcycles.
The introduction of the ETCS on the Padma Bridge signifies a significant step towards efficient toll collection and smoother traffic flow. The trial phase will help assess the system’s effectiveness and address any potential issues before its full-scale implementation, offering a more convenient and seamless experience for commuters.
