Technology is no longer a luxury—it's an indispensable part of our mobility ecosystem. From digital payments to on-demand services, it elevates convenience across our lives. Today, technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), FASTag, and cashless payments are revolutionizing not only highway tolling but also transforming parking experiences in India.

From Toll Plazas to Smart Parking Lots

India’s tolling landscape has embraced ANPR and FASTag systems, enabling frictionless movement through automatic fee deduction and number plate recognition—eliminating queues and reducing idle time. The rollout extends to over 1,150 FASTag-enabled plazas, with the Annual FASTag Pass seeing 1.4 lakh activations on its first day, and achieving notable adoption rates—30% of private cars on the Delhi–Chandigarh corridor already using it.

This seamless technology is now made its way into parking infrastructure. Operators like Secure Parking, with over 250,000 managed bays across 40 Indian cities, are deploying the same systems—ANPR-assisted entry/exit, digital billing, and cashless validation—to streamline operations and elevate user experience.

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Smart Parking in Action: Fast, Secure, Transparent

Secure Parking’s tech division, SecureTech, powers its DOLPHIN platform—a sophisticated parking management solution integrating 360° audit control, loyalty programs, mobile cashiering, digital payments like Fastag, DQR-UPI, EDC, pre-paid vouchers and ANPR automation. It enables seamless booking, contactless access, and high transparency—ideal for high-traffic locations like malls, corporate parks, and airports.

Real-World Impact & Benefits

ANPR and FASTag systems deliver substantial operational improvements by dramatically reducing queue times at both toll booths and parking gates, creating a seamless customer experience. The digital recording of every vehicle movement provides operational clarity that effectively curbs misuse while streamlining enforcement processes. Additionally, DOLPHIN's comprehensive parking modules and web-based owner dashboards empower property managers with granular insights and enhanced revenue capture capabilities, transforming how facilities are managed and monetized.

Extending the Digital Toll Ecosystem

FASTag's versatility continues to expand well beyond traditional toll roads, with the Ministry of Road Transport signaling its adoption for diverse applications including EV charging payments, parking ticketing, and fine settlements. This digital convergence is already demonstrating real-world success in pilot stages, particularly in toll-governed regions like Tirumala, where FASTag has been mandated at Alipiri. With up to 15,000 daily vehicles utilizing the system, this policy implementation has significantly mitigated congestion and eliminated the prolonged wait times that previously plagued the area.

Data Corner: Secure Parking At-A-Glance

The scale of operations spans 40 cities across India, managing over 250,000 parking bays under active operations. This extensive network processes an impressive 7.5 million transactions per month, demonstrating the robust capacity and widespread adoption of the integrated parking management system.

Challenges & Next Steps

ANPR systems may falter in low-light conditions or with damaged number plates. As a fall back, DOLPHIN has a robust ticketing system with a central cashier to maintain customer experience. Secondly, as volumes and corresponding data increases, it is critical to ensure user privacy and cybersecurity. As smartphone penetration increase and digital infrastructure matures, these systems are scalable and offer user-first solutions for smarter mobility.

Final Word

By blending ANPR, FASTag, and digital payments into parking ecosystems, India is redefining the convenience quotient across urban movement. For developers, mall operators, airport authorities, and parking providers, this is more than technology —it’s a game-changing improvement in efficiency, transparency, and experience.

About the Author

Arvind Mayar, Chief Executive Officer, Secure Parking is an IIT Delhi Engineering graduate with an MBA from IIM Calcutta, bringing over 45 years of expertise in real estate construction, development, and parking management across commercial and residential sectors. His extensive leadership experience spans 25+ years with domestic and multinational companies in India and internationally, providing global perspective and innovative strategies to drive business growth. At Secure Parking, Arvind has cultivated a strong, experienced management team through his consultative and inclusive leadership style. His focus on delegation ensures robust teamwork and accountability, positioning the company for profitable, rapid expansion. Outside work, he enjoys golf and bridge while staying current with industry trends through extensive reading and market engagement.