New method takes a toll on drivers

Editor's Note: Six toll stations on highways linking Tianjin with other cities recently switched to the electronic toll collection system and stopped annual collection of tolls, upsetting drivers who have not enrolled in the ETC program. Guangming Daily comments:

The electronic toll collection system has caused serious traffic congestion at the toll stations, as many vehicles have not enlisted in the ETC program. Some video clips posted on social media showed vehicles making U-turns and leaving the toll stations, while toll station staff guided other vehicles to an area nearby to apply for enrolling in the program. "Without enrolling in the ETC program, you can't get on the highway," many drivers were told.

A Ministry of Transport official said this practice was wrong, stressing that his department has made it clear that at least one manual toll collection lane should be kept open on all highways where the ETC system has been introduced.

In theory, ETC has obvious advantages, as it ensures smooth entry, less congestion, and lower operating costs. It is key to eliminating toll stations on highways and facilitating high-speed travel.

Some developed countries introduced a similar toll collection system in the mid-1980s. But in China, the ETC system has gained prominence in recent years. The authorities are pressing for more than 90 percent of vehicles on highways to use the device by the end of 2019.

It is because of such pressing goals that some regions are insisting that it be mandatory for drivers taking the expressways to enroll in the ETC program.

True, the manual toll collection lanes have longer queues, but the flow of traffic in the ETC lanes is not smooth either, because many drivers are guided to a designated place to enlist in the program and link their ETC card to their credit card or any other payment medium.

Also, the experience of those who already have ETC cards shows that even after switching to the new system it is necessary to make one or several trips before it starts working smoothly.

It is the public's right to choose which system they want to use on the highway. It cannot be forcibly introduced by the administration. Any decision the relevant departments take should ensure that it does not limit the number of options before drivers on highways, even if the intention is to make driving a more convenient experience.