Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Launches ‘One App, One System’ for 38 Digital Toll Plazas
The Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Launches , has officially launched a groundbreaking initiative to digitize 38 toll plazas across the province through a unified ‘One App, One System’ electronic payment network. This ambitious reform marks a major milestone in Punjab’s journey towards smart transportation, transparent revenue collection, and seamless travel infrastructure.
For decades, toll collection in Punjab has relied heavily on manual cash-based systems, where drivers were forced to stop at barrier gates, hand over physical currency, wait for receipts, and suffer long queues, especially during peak hours and festive travel seasons. This not only caused massive time wastage and fuel consumption but also contributed to unrecorded revenue leakages, with insiders estimating that 15–20% of toll income was never officially documented due to cash mismanagement.
The new Digital Toll Plaza System 2025 promises to change this landscape completely by replacing human-operated booths with RFID-based scanners, QR-enabled payment devices, mobile wallets, and smart surveillance infrastructure. Under the ‘One App, One System’ model, every driver will be able to register their vehicle once and travel across all 38 toll plazas without stopping, as toll charges will be automatically deducted from their prepaid digital wallet or linked bank account.
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What Is the ‘One App, One System’ Initiative?
The One App, One System framework is Punjab’s first centralized digital toll collection platform, developed to ensure that all provincial highways operate under a unified automation network. Instead of managing multiple toll operators separately, the government has adopted a singular software and payment gateway, integrating RFID tags, ANPR cameras (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), QR-code scanning, and cloud-based revenue dashboards.
This means that every toll plaza will be monitored in real time, ensuring full transparency and zero human interference.
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Key Features of the Digital Toll System:
| Feature | Function | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| RFID Smart Tags | Stickers placed on vehicles for automatic detection | No need to stop or pay manually |
| One App for All Toll Payments | Unified mobile app for balance check and top-up | Cashless & hassle-free experience |
| QR-Based Payment Support | Alternative quick scan option for non-tagged vehicles | Inclusive for all users |
| ANPR Surveillance Cameras | Capture number plates for monitoring & law enforcement | Helps track stolen or suspicious vehicles |
| Centralized Revenue Dashboard | Real-time tracking of collections | Eliminates leakage & corruption |
| Solar-Powered Toll Gates | Energy-efficient operations | Reduces maintenance costs |
How to Use the New Digital Toll System – Step-by-Step:
- Download the Official Punjab Toll App (to be released soon)
- Register with CNIC and Vehicle Number
- Link JazzCash, Easypaisa, Bank Account, or Debit Card
- Purchase and Install RFID Tag on Windshield
- Drive Through Toll Gates Without Stopping — Auto Deduction Ensured
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Major Benefits of the ‘One App, One System’ Reform:
| Stakeholder | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Drivers & Commuters | No queues, no cash hassle, time savings |
| Logistics & Transport Companies | Faster cargo movement, transparent expense records |
| Punjab Government | 100% revenue transparency, stronger tax enforcement |
| Law Enforcement Agencies | Real-time vehicle tracking for security alerts |
| Environment | Reduced emissions due to non-stop traffic |
Tackling Corruption and Revenue Leakage:
Under the old system, toll collections were often handled by private contractors who operated manually, leaving gaps in monitoring. With digital logging of every transaction, no cash will be handled physically, meaning no room for theft, misreporting, or bribery. The Punjab IT Board (PITB) will oversee system performance, ensuring complete transparency across all toll points.
Comparison with Motorway M-Tag and Global Systems:
Punjab’s digital toll plan is similar to the M-Tag system used on national motorways but goes further by allowing multiple payment options, regional connectivity, and mobile wallet compatibility. On a global scale, it aligns with India’s FASTag, Turkey’s HGS, and Europe’s Open Road Tolling systems — positioning Punjab among digitally advanced transport networks.
Rollout Strategy – Which Toll Plazas Are Included?
The first phase includes 38 major toll plazas located across:
- Lahore Ring Road, Multan Road, Faisalabad Road
- GT Road (Lahore–Gujranwala, Rawalpindi–Taxila)
- Okara, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Sargodha highways
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) maintained routes
Once fully operational, the government plans to expand the system to district and intercity link roads.
FAQs Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Launches 2025:
1. When will the digital toll system officially launch in Punjab?
The rollout is expected to begin in early 2025, starting with 38 toll plazas in the first phase.
2. Will this system replace the motorway M-Tag?
No. The M-Tag will still be used on national motorways, while Punjab’s One App system will operate on provincial highways. However, future integration of both systems is under consideration.
3. Is the RFID sticker mandatory for all vehicles?
Yes, for vehicles using designated toll routes, RFID tagging will eventually become compulsory.
4. Can drivers still pay cash during the transition period?
Yes, cash counters will operate temporarily, but the government plans to phase them out gradually.
5. Will motorcycles and rickshaws be included in the toll system?
Most toll routes apply to cars, vans, buses, and heavy vehicles. Motorcycles and smaller local vehicles may remain exempt, depending on road category.
6. How do I install the RFID tag on my vehicle?
Once purchased, simply stick it on the inside of your windshield. It must be clearly visible to scanners.
7. What happens if my app balance is insufficient at the time of crossing?
The system will alert you to recharge. Repeated unpaid crossings may result in vehicle blacklisting or fines.
8. Which payment methods will be accepted in the app?
Users will be able to top up through JazzCash, Easypaisa, Bank Transfers, Debit/Credit Cards, and Auto Top-Up options.
9. Will transport and logistics companies get bulk registration options?
Yes, fleet accounts will be available for buses, cargo trucks, rental cars, and corporate vehicles.
10. Will there be a monthly or annual subscription option?
The government is exploring prepaid and postpaid bundles for frequent highway users.
11. Can one account be used for multiple vehicles?
Yes, the app will support multiple vehicle registrations under one CNIC or corporate dashboard.
12. Will the app show toll history and travel receipts?
Yes, users can download travel logs, toll deductions, and invoices directly from the dashboard.
13. Will the system work during power outages or network failures?
Toll booths will be solar-powered and connected to backup internet systems, ensuring 24/7 operation.
14. How will this system help in crime prevention?
ANPR surveillance cameras will record number plates in real time, helping authorities track stolen vehicles, smuggling attempts, or suspicious movement.
15. Will there be penalties for tampering with RFID tags?
Yes. Tampering or using fake tags will be considered fraud, leading to legal action or vehicle impoundment.
16. Can overseas Pakistanis register in advance before arriving?
Yes — expats can pre-register via app before traveling to Pakistan and pick up RFID tags at airport kiosks or toll counters.
17. Will toll rates change after digitalization?
No immediate increase is planned. However, rate revision will be government-controlled and publicly notified.
18. Will elderly or disability vehicles get any exemptions?
Special policies are under review for ambulances, rescue services, and disability-certified vehicles.
19. What if a vehicle frequently travels on multiple highways?
The One App system allows single registration across all 38 toll plazas — no separate passes needed.
20. Who should I contact for complaints or technical issues?
A dedicated helpline and in-app support center will be available for tag replacement, billing disputes, or malfunction reports.
Conclusion — A New Era of Smart Highways in Punjab
The ‘One App, One System’ Digital Toll Plaza Reform is not merely an infrastructure upgrade — it is a revolution in mobility, governance, and digital finance management. For commuters, it ensures comfort and time savings. For the government, it guarantees transparency and integrity. For the economy, it boosts logistics efficiency and fuel conservation.
If implemented with consistency and public cooperation, Punjab may soon become the first fully digital travel corridor in Pakistan, inspiring Sindh, KPK, and Balochistan to follow.
