New FASTag Regulations Come Into Force: Key Changes Explained

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th Feb. From today, new FASTag regulations are in effect, introducing stricter guidelines for toll payments and verification. According to a circular from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) dated January 28, FASTag payments will now be verified within a set timeframe after the tag is scanned at a toll plaza.

What is FASTag?

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that enables cashless payments at toll plazas through Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. When a vehicle approaches a toll booth, an RFID sensor scans the FASTag affixed to the windshield, automatically deducting toll charges from a linked bank account, prepaid wallet, or payment app.

Key Changes in FASTag Rules:

• Blacklisted FASTags: Transactions will be declined if a FASTag is blacklisted, placed on a hotlist, or has low balance for more than 60 minutes before reaching the toll booth. If the status remains blacklisted for 10 minutes after scanning, the payment will be rejected, and the vehicle will be penalized with double the toll fee.
• Grace Period for Recharging: Users now have a 70-minute window before reaching a toll to recharge their FASTag. If recharged within 10 minutes of a failed transaction, users can request a penalty refund and avoid extra charges.
• Delayed Transactions: If a toll transaction is processed more than 15 minutes after passing the toll reader, users may face additional charges.
• Chargeback Cooling Period: Banks can raise chargeback requests for incorrect deductions due to blacklisted or low-balance FASTags only after a 15-day cooling period.

Implications for FASTag Users:

• No Last-Minute Recharges: If a FASTag has been blacklisted for over 60 minutes before reaching a toll, a last-minute recharge will not help.
• Penalty Refund Possibility: If a recharge is done within 10 minutes of a failed transaction, users may qualify for a penalty refund and avoid paying double toll charges.
• Strict Transaction Monitoring: It is crucial to keep FASTags active and ensure a sufficient balance to avoid delays, rejections, or extra charges at toll booths.

How to Avoid FASTag Issues:

• Maintain a sufficient balance in your FASTag wallet.
• Regularly check the FASTag status to prevent blacklisting.
• Monitor transaction times to avoid delays and additional charges.
• Keep your FASTag active to avoid rejection at toll booths.

With these updated rules, FASTag users are encouraged to stay vigilant and ensure smooth toll payments without facing penalties or unnecessary charges.