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Drivers traveling on the highway are upset with the long lines at toll plazas, attributed to a lack of attendants. Eixo SP, the responsible concessionaire, announced the implementation of self-service kiosks with contactless payment in an attempt to address the problem and improve traffic flow.
The routine of those who travel on the highway Comandante João Ribeiro de Barros (SP-294) has been marked by challenges that go beyond normal traffic.
Recently, a new complaint has gained prominence among drivers using the stretch between Garça and Marília: the lack of attendants at the 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 booths.
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Many drivers report having to wait more than 30 minutes to pass through the toll, even during off-peak hours.
For those who use the highway daily, the delays represent a significant inconvenience, impacting everything from professional commitments to personal travel.
Drivers’ Outrage
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 plenty of employees, but now they made this joke.”
“Besides paying an outrageous amount for the toll, we still have to deal with this. We lose more than half an hour just to pass through the turnstile. Until someone loses their patience and barges through, turnstile and all. That’s what’s going to end up happening,” he stated.
Complaints have multiplied in driver groups and on social media. Many highlight that, in addition to the high toll rates, the service provided by the concessionaires has been lacking.
The lack of information regarding the reduction of attendants also causes discomfort.
Concessionaire’s Response
The concessionaire responsible for managing the highway, Eixo SP, stated that the number of booths in operation corresponds to the traffic volume and the service criteria established by the São Paulo State Transportation Agency (Artesp).
According to the company, measures are being implemented to improve flow and reduce wait times for drivers.
One of these initiatives is the implementation of self-service kiosks, which will allow contactless payment with debit cards.
According to Eixo SP, this solution aims to “streamline the process and provide one more option for drivers.”
Initiatives to Improve Service
In addition to the self-service kiosks, the concessionaire highlights other benefits for frequent users of the highway.
Drivers who opt for automatic payment with tags receive a 5% discount on the toll.
Progressive discounts are also applied starting from the second passage through the same plaza, in the same direction, and within the same month.
However, many drivers argue that these measures are not sufficient.
Ride-hailing app users and truck drivers point out that the implementation of automatic kiosks does not address the situation for larger vehicles that require in-person assistance.
“Not everyone can use a tag or card. Many drivers pay in cash. We need people at the booths,” a truck driver commented in an online discussion group.
Economic Impact and Mobility
The issue of traffic at toll booths also generates economic impacts. Logistics companies report losses due to increased travel time for freight.
Additionally, ride-hailing drivers and taxi drivers complain about losing customers who avoid routes with congested tolls.
Transportation researchers emphasize that modernizing toll plazas is a necessary path, but they highlight that the transition should be planned carefully to avoid inconveniences for users.
“Digital payment is positive, but it needs to be accompanied by alternatives for those who do not have access to these technologies,” a sector specialist stated.
For experts, the situation at the SP-294 toll plazas highlights the challenge of balancing revenue collection and the quality of services provided.
While the Eixo SP concessionaire bets on new technologies, drivers demand more effective and inclusive solutions.
With lines persisting and dissatisfaction growing, it remains to be seen whether the announced measures will be sufficient to alleviate the discontent and ensure a smoother journey for those who depend on this highway daily.
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