Numerous errors found in toll collection systems on two expressways traversing Dong Nai and Lam Dong

Management authorities have identified multiple malfunctions in the electronic toll collection (ETC) and license plate recognition (LPR) systems on the Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet and Phan Thiet - Dau Giay expressways, mandating their rectification before 10/3.

The two expressways began toll collection at 22h on 2/3. The Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet expressway spans over 100 km through Binh Thuan province; the Phan Thiet - Dau Giay expressway is about 99 km long, connecting Lam Dong with Dong Nai. This forms a continuous expressway axis from Ho Chi Minh City (TP HCM) to the South Central region.

According to Road Management Zone IV, operational inspections and reports from the toll collection unit revealed numerous technical errors. These issues impact revenue management and traffic safety.

The Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet expressway passing through Ham Kiem commune, Binh Thuan province. Photo: Viet Quoc

The electronic toll collection (ETC) and license plate recognition (LPR) systems on both expressways operate unstably, with a recognition rate of only about 50%. Images are blurry, insufficient to identify vehicles. Cameras also fail to detect trailing vehicles.

In some instances, entry lane cards cannot be read, and vehicle exit data is incomplete. Monitoring videos are blurry and intermittent.

Furthermore, the LED display boards at the stations do not show toll fees, only vehicle license plates and directions. This fails to meet transparency requirements for transactions. Several traffic signals are frozen, preventing stable operation.

Camera system on the Dau Giay - Phan Thiet expressway. Photo: Viet Quoc

At the toll stations, lighting systems on the gantries (steel frame structures for signs, signals, or surveillance cameras) remain uninstalled. Lane dividers lack reflectors, posing a safety risk at night. Additionally, some operator rooms lack running water.

The VOS - BOO3 management software is slow to access and frequently prevents login. It requires duplicate entry of entry and exit times, cannot process offline toll transactions, and data entry involves many manual steps. The system also does not allow lane selection at some stations, fails to clearly distinguish entry and exit lanes when filtering data, and lacks a vehicle journey lookup tool for retrospective collection.

To ensure continuous and compliant toll collection and prevent revenue loss, Road Management Zone IV has instructed project management boards and relevant units to assign staff for 24/24 duty at stations and control centers, completing all rectifications before 10/3.