The Punjab government has resolved to digitise all 41 manual toll plazas across the province to streamline traffic movement and ensure a more transparent and efficient toll collection process. This decision was finalized during a meeting chaired by Provincial Minister for Communications and Works, Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, on Wednesday.
In a significant development, the meeting concluded that manual toll slips would be completely eliminated by implementing a fully digital toll collection system. The digitisation will be carried out in phases, covering all toll plazas managed by the department.
Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bherth emphasized strict measures against overcharging at toll plazas, warning that such practices would not be tolerated. He also ordered a crackdown on individuals involved in these violations to protect commuters from unfair charges.
Furthermore, the minister directed the rollout of M-Tag facilities at every toll plaza. This initiative will adopt a “One-App, One-System” model, mirroring the electronic tolling system currently used on motorways, to unify all electronic toll collection points under a single platform.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has approved public-private partnerships for the construction, repair, and rehabilitation of five major roads. Under this framework, private companies will take responsibility for the maintenance and development of these roads.
Officials highlighted that Punjab has achieved record savings of Rs 40 billion through the use of e-tendering, demonstrating enhanced efficiency and transparency in procurement processes.
Notably, the Chief Minister has also instructed the installation of solar-powered streetlights on all newly constructed roads. Additionally, several beautification and redevelopment projects have been approved for Lahore, including improvements at the Railway Station, Misri Shah, Data Darbar, and the Ek Moria and Do Moria bridges.
