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Motorists traveling on the highway are outraged by the long lines at toll booths, attributed to the shortage of attendants. Eixo SP, the concessionaire responsible, announced the implementation of self-service booths with contactless payment in an attempt to overcome the problem and improve traffic flow.
The routine of who travels along the highway Comandante João Ribeiro de Barros (SP-294) has been marked by challenges that go beyond the usual traffic.
Recently, a new complaint has gained prominence among drivers using the stretch between Garça and Marília: the shortage of attendants at toll plazas, resulting in long lines and unwanted delays.
The problem is not new, but the situation has worsened with the reduction in the number of operational cabins.
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Many drivers report having to wait more than 30 minutes to pass through the toll booth, even during off-peak hours.
For those who use the highway daily, delays represent a significant inconvenience, impacting everything from professional commitments to personal journeys.
Drivers' revolt
Lúcio Alexandre, a frequent driver on this highway, expressed his dissatisfaction on social media.
“This should have been resolved a long time ago. It’s a joke. Only one turnstile works on one side and one on the other,” he said.
According to him, “In the beginning, there were a lot of employees, but now they've made a joke of it.”
"In addition to paying an absurd amount for tolls, we still have to deal with this. We waste more than half an hour passing through the turnstile. Until someone loses patience and goes through with everything, turnstile and everything. That's what will end up happening,” he said.
Complaints have been multiplying in driver groups and on social media. Many point out that, in addition to the high fare, the service provided by dealerships has left much to be desired.
The lack of information about the reason for the reduction in attendants also causes discomfort.
Dealership response
The concessionaire responsible for managing the highway, Eixo SP, stated that the number of cabins in operation corresponds to the volume of traffic and the service criteria established by the São Paulo State Transport Agency (Artsp).
According to the company, measures are being implemented to improve flow and reduce waiting times for drivers.
One of these initiatives is the implementation of self-service booths, which will allow contactless payment using a debit card.
According to Eixo SP, this solution seeks “speed up the process and offer drivers another option.”
Initiatives to improve service
In addition to the self-service booths, the concessionaire highlights other benefits for those who use the highway frequently.
Drivers who opt for automatic payment with tags receive a 5% discount on the fare.
Progressive discounts are also applied starting from the second time you pass through the same toll booth, in the same direction and within the same month.
However, many drivers argue that these measures are not enough.
Users of transportation apps and truck drivers point out that the implementation of automatic cabins does not resolve the situation of larger vehicles, which require in-person service.
“Not everyone can use a tag or card. There are many drivers who pay in cash. We need people in the booths,” commented a trucker in an online discussion group.
Economic and mobility impact
The problem of queues at toll booths also has economic impacts. Logistics companies are reporting losses due to increased cargo transit times.
In addition, app drivers and taxi drivers complain about the loss of customers who avoid routes with congested toll booths.
Researchers in the transport sector highlight that modernizing toll plazas is a necessary step, but they emphasize that the transition must be done in a planned manner to avoid inconvenience to users.
“The digitalization of payments is positive, but it needs to be accompanied by alternatives for those who do not have access to these technologies”, said an industry expert.
For experts, the situation at the toll plazas on SP-294 highlights the challenge of balancing revenue collection and the quality of services provided.
While the Eixo SP dealership is investing in new technologies, drivers are demanding more effective and inclusive solutions.
With queues persisting and discontent growing, it remains to be seen whether the measures announced will be enough to alleviate dissatisfaction and ensure a smoother journey for those who depend on this highway on a daily basis.
