Padma Bridge Launches Bangladesh’s First Integrated Cashless Tolling System ‘D-Toll’
In a major step toward easing Eid travel congestion and modernizing highway payments, Bangladesh has launched its first integrated cashless toll collection service, “D-Toll,” on the Padma Bridge. Operated by Aspire to Innovate (a2i), the technology-driven platform allows drivers to pay tolls automatically without stopping at toll plazas or using cash.
The new system is helping authorities handle the heavy surge of Eid-ul-Adha traffic more efficiently while also reducing pressure on toll operators.
On Monday, Abdullah Al Fahim said more than 10,000 vehicles have already been registered under the service and over Tk 7 crore in toll transactions has been processed so far. According to him, the D-Toll platform has significantly reduced traffic congestion, improved travel convenience, and saved substantial working hours.
RFID-Based Automated Toll Collection
Officials working at the toll plaza said the system uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, enabling vehicles to pay tolls automatically through existing Bangladesh Road Transport Authority RFID tags. As a result, drivers do not need to purchase any additional onboard device or equipment.
According to a2i sources, the service is currently being introduced gradually on an experimental basis at the Padma Bridge, though usage has increased sharply ahead of Eid. Users can make payments through banks, mobile financial services, and digital wallets.
Current D-Toll payment partners include bKash, Nagad, Upay, City Bank, Dhaka Bank, Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, Jamuna Bank, Midland Bank, Mutual Trust Bank, NCC Bank, and Prime Bank. Authorities said additional banks and digital wallets will be integrated into the platform in the future.
Toward a Nationwide Unified Tolling Ecosystem
Through the D-Toll initiative, the government aims to implement a nationwide “One Nation, One Tolling System.” Under this framework, motorists will eventually be able to use the same RFID tag and digital wallet across multiple bridges, expressways, and toll roads throughout the country.
Officials confirmed that after the successful implementation on Padma Bridge, the system is expected to expand to the Jamuna Bridge and other major bridges and expressways. Work is already underway to build a nationally interconnected tolling ecosystem involving the Bangladesh Bridge Authority, the Roads and Highways Department, and relevant toll operators.
Sector insiders believe the D-Toll platform will not only modernize and improve transparency in toll collection but also accelerate digital financial inclusion, reduce traffic congestion, and support safer and smarter transportation infrastructure across Bangladesh.
DBTech/RI/EK/OR
