The Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development has introduced measures to further promote the use of the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system on the Colombo–Katunayake Expressway, aiming to provide motorists with a faster and more convenient toll payment experience.

Awareness programmes on the enhanced ETC facilities were conducted today (15). According to the Ministry, motorists can now make toll payments using cash, cards, or the ETC system, with dedicated entry and exit lanes available for ETC users to minimize delays and improve traffic flow.

The Transport Ministry said ETC users are entitled to a 10 percent discount on toll charges for every journey made through the system.

At present, ETC payments can be made at the Peliyagoda, Kerawalapitiya, Ja-Ela and Katunayake interchanges. Plans are also underway to introduce the facility at the Kadawatha interchange for vehicles accessing the Colombo–Katunayake Expressway via the Outer Circular Highway.

Officials noted that vehicle owners previously faced several difficulties when registering for the ETC service, often requiring visits to multiple locations. In response, the Ministry and the Road Development Authority (RDA) have enabled online registration through the www.exway.rda.gov.lk portal, allowing motorists to sign up more conveniently.

Following registration, users can obtain an RFID tag from a designated interchange and top up their ETC account through the website or GovPay using a bank card. Once activated, toll charges will be deducted automatically, enabling seamless travel through expressway toll gates.

The RDA has also advised motorists using ETC lanes to maintain a speed of 15 kilometres per hour at entry and exit points and keep a minimum distance of 20 metres from the vehicle ahead to ensure uninterrupted operation of the system.