New FASTag Rules: What Changes You Need to Know from Today
The new FASTag rules come into effect, changing the way toll payments are processed across India. These rules, issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), are aimed at improving the efficiency of toll transactions while also preventing fraudulent activities.
As many are aware, FASTag has revolutionised toll payments in India, enabling drivers to pass through toll plazas without having to stop and make manual payments. The tag, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) passive sticker, links to a prepaid or savings account, and toll fares are directly deducted from the linked account. While the system has brought convenience to millions, recent updates to the rules are designed to make the system more streamlined and secure.
Key Changes in FASTag Rules
Blacklisted FASTags: One of the most important changes is the handling of blacklisted FASTags. If a user’s FASTag is blacklisted at the time of toll payment, the transaction will be declined. Furthermore, if the FASTag is blacklisted 10 minutes before scanning, the toll payment will not be processed. This rule ensures that only active and valid FASTags are used for toll transactions.
Grace Period for Rectification: To avoid penalties, users now have a 70-minute grace period before reaching the toll booth to correct any issues with their FASTag account, such as low balance or inactivity. This allows users time to recharge or reactivate their FASTag, ensuring smoother toll experiences.
Consequences of Blacklisting: If a FASTag is blacklisted when reaching the toll, users will be required to pay double the toll fee. However, if the user recharges the FASTag within 10 minutes after scanning, they can request a refund of the penalty charge.
Delayed Transactions: In case a toll transaction is processed more than 15 minutes after a vehicle passes the toll reader, additional charges may apply. This rule helps prevent delays and ensures that toll collections are timely and accurate.
Chargeback Process: If there are incorrect deductions due to blacklisting or insufficient balance, banks can initiate a chargeback after a 15-day cooling period. This allows users to dispute any erroneous toll deductions.
To avoid being charged double or facing penalties, FASTag users should ensure that their account balance is sufficient before heading to the toll booth. It is also essential to regularly check the status of the FASTag to ensure it’s not blacklisted or inactive. Users can also monitor the time of their toll transactions and make sure that there are no delays in payment processing.
Before reaching the toll, it is recommended that drivers check their FASTag’s balance and status to ensure it is ready for use. Proactively managing these factors will help prevent unexpected charges and keep toll payments seamless. These new FASTag rules are a significant step towards enhancing toll payment systems in India, making them more efficient and secure. While the updated guidelines focus on reducing fraud and improving user experience, it is important for FASTag users to stay vigilant. Ensuring their tag remains active and monitoring their accounts for sufficient balance will help avoid unwanted penalties. With these changes, the aim is to provide a smoother and more transparent experience for the millions of drivers who rely on FASTag for toll payments every day.
