NEXCO Central Japan has announced a significant system failure affecting the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system across multiple expressways, causing severe disruptions for drivers in the region. As of April 6, 2025, the malfunction has rendered ETC lanes unusable at more than 50 toll booths in a metropolitan area and six prefectures, including Shizuoka, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Aichi, Yamanashi, Gifu, and Mie.
The issues began around 0:30 AM on April 6, when the equipment controlling the ETC system experienced a failure, leading to congestion and delays for motorists. According to NEXCO Central Japan, while general lanes and support lanes remain operational, the inability to use the ETC lanes has frustrated many drivers who rely on the faster service.
As of 8:30 AM, the company indicated that there was no clear timeline for recovery from the malfunction. "We are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, but currently, we do not have an estimated time for when the ETC lanes will be back in service," a representative from NEXCO stated.
The affected expressways include the Tomei Expressway, Shin-Tomei Expressway, and Chuo Expressway, among others. Major toll booths where the ETC system is unavailable include Fuji IC, Shimizu IC, Toyokawa IC, Okazaki IC, and Nagoya IC on the Tomei Expressway, as well as several others on the Shin-Tomei and Chuo expressways.
In addition to the disruptions, some toll booths have been completely closed due to the malfunction. Closed toll booths include the Suzuka Smart IC on the Shin-Meishin Expressway and several others across different routes. This has raised concerns among drivers about the availability of alternatives and the potential for increased travel times.
Motorists are advised to check the latest traffic information on NEXCO's website and to consider using nearby interchanges to avoid delays. The company is urging drivers to remain patient as they work through the technical difficulties.
As the situation develops, NEXCO Central Japan is expected to provide updates on the restoration of the ETC service, which is crucial for efficient travel on Japan's busy expressways. With many drivers relying on the convenience of the ETC system, the impact of this failure highlights the importance of maintaining robust infrastructure and technology in the transportation sector.
In the meantime, the public's response has been mixed, with some expressing frustration over the inconvenience while others understand that technical failures can happen. "It’s annoying, but I get it; these things happen," said one driver at a toll booth. "I just hope they fix it soon so we can get back to normal."
