Tailgating at Toll Plazas May Lead to M-Tag Blocking in Pakistan

One Network, the operator of Pakistan’s motorway toll system, has issued a warning to motorists against tailgating at toll plazas to avoid paying toll fees. The company emphasized that such behavior is illegal and can result in blocking of the vehicle’s M-Tag, imposition of heavy fines, and possible legal action.

In the context of motorway toll collection, tailgating refers to the practice of driving closely behind another vehicle at a toll booth to slip through without individually paying the toll. While some drivers may see this as a shortcut, it disrupts the electronic toll system’s functioning, causing payment disputes, undermining safety, and leading to revenue loss.

Pakistan’s motorway toll system heavily relies on M-Tag, an electronic tag linked to prepaid accounts of vehicles. This system requires each vehicle to be scanned separately as it passes through the toll plaza. The M-Tag One Network app allows users to check account balances, access travel history, recharge accounts, and obtain support via the 1313 helpline.

When tailgating occurs, the system’s ability to accurately detect and charge individual vehicles is compromised. This leads to confusion, especially for the vehicle ahead, toll staff dealing with unnecessary disputes, and overall disruption of smooth toll operations.

The advisory from One Network highlighted potential consequences for drivers caught avoiding toll payments through tailgating. These include blocking of their M-Tag, fines, and legal proceedings. An M-Tag block can create significant inconvenience for regular motorway users, especially during intercity travels.

Motorists are advised to maintain sufficient balance in their M-Tag accounts, keep a safe distance from other vehicles at toll plazas, wait for the individual scan to complete, and pass only after the toll barrier opens. For any issues related to M-Tag, users are encouraged to contact One Network via the dedicated helpline.

One Network’s message is clear: the small amount of toll saved by tailgating is not worth the larger penalties and difficulties that may follow.

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