Vietnam's Toll-Free Highways: A Barrier-Free Future

Vietnam's Ministry of Transport (MOT) is spearheading a nationwide initiative to revolutionize the country's toll collection system.

Following successful pilot programs at three Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) projects, the MOT is charting a course towards removing physical toll booths and implementing a free-flowing, multi-lane ETC system across the country.

Successful Pilot Programs

The pilot programs, implemented on the Nha Trang - Cam Lam, Dien Chau - Bai Vot, and Cam Lam - Vinh Hao expressways, have demonstrated the viability of barrier-free ETC.

These projects have achieved key performance indicators (KPIs) and provided valuable insights for the nationwide rollout.

The MOT envisions a three-phase implementation of ETC. The initial phase, focusing on single-lane ETC with barriers, spanned from 2016 to 2023 and has been successfully completed, with 100% of toll lanes on eligible highways now equipped with ETC.

Currently, the focus is on the second phase, implementing single-lane free-flow ETC without barriers, with pilot programs already underway. Looking ahead, the ultimate goal is to achieve multi-lane free-flow ETC without barriers from 2026 onwards, representing a seamless, barrier-free toll collection system.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

To facilitate the transition to barrier-free ETC, the MOT is working to amend existing legislation and regulations. The Law on Roads and related decrees are being revised to provide a comprehensive legal framework for electronic toll collection.

The ministry has directed the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) to implement ETC at major airports, including Noi Bai (Hanoi), Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Phu Bai (Thua Thien Hue), Da Nang (Da Nang), and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City).

This expansion aims to streamline payment processes and enhance the overall travel experience. 

The implementation of barrier-free ETC promises numerous benefits for Vietnam.

Eliminating physical barriers will significantly improve traffic flow, reducing congestion and travel times.

Free-flow ETC will eliminate the need for vehicles to stop and start at toll booths, improving safety for both drivers and toll operators.

ETC will streamline toll collection, reducing administrative costs and improving operational efficiency. Furthermore, by reducing congestion and idling times, ETC will contribute to lower emissions and improved air quality.

While the benefits of barrier-free ETC are clear, there are challenges to overcome. Educating the public about the benefits of ETC and ensuring a smooth transition will be crucial.

Upgrading and maintaining the technological infrastructure required for ETC will require ongoing investment. Additionally, developing effective mechanisms to ensure compliance and address toll evasion will be essential.

Vietnam's ambitious plan to implement barrier-free ETC represents a transformative vision for the country's transportation infrastructure.

By embracing this technology, Vietnam is poised to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and create a more efficient and sustainable transportation system.

The successful implementation of this initiative will not only benefit Vietnamese commuters and businesses but also serve as a model for other countries in the region.