FASTag Rules Change Alert: How New Rules Will Affect You?

The new FASTag rules implemented on February 17, 2025, represent a significant shift in how toll payments are processed in India. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency and security of toll transactions while reducing disputes related to payment failures. Key features include a 70-minute grace period for users to rectify issues with blacklisted FASTags, stricter validation processes to prevent fraud, and penalties for delayed payments. These changes, outlined in a National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) circular dated January 28, aim to streamline toll payments and ensure smoother traffic flow at toll plazas.

Here’s a breakdown of what these new rules mean for FASTag users:

What is FASTag?

FASTag is a convenient system that employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll charges from a linked account. This account can be a bank account, prepaid wallet, or payment app. A FASTag sticker is placed on the vehicle’s windshield, allowing for seamless passage through toll booths as the RFID sensors scan the tag and deduct the necessary toll.

Key Changes in FASTag Rules

The new regulations focus on preventing issues related to blacklisted FASTags, low balances, and delayed transactions. Here are the key changes:

Blacklisted FASTags: If a FASTag is blacklisted, placed on a hotlist, or has a low balance for more than 60 minutes before reaching the toll booth, transactions will be declined. Furthermore, if a FASTag remains blacklisted for 10 minutes after being scanned, the payment will also be rejected. In either of these scenarios, the system will decline the transaction, and the vehicle owner will be charged double the toll fee as a penalty.

Grace Period for Recharging: A 70-minute window is now provided before reaching the toll booth to rectify FASTag status. Recharging a FASTag within 10 minutes of an attempted transaction might qualify users for a penalty refund, allowing them to pay only the standard toll fee.

Delayed Transactions: Users may face extra charges if a toll transaction is processed more than 15 minutes after passing the toll reader.

Chargebacks: Cooling Period Introduced: Banks can only raise chargeback requests for incorrect deductions due to blacklisted or low-balance FASTags after a 15-day cooling period.

Implications for FASTag Users

These new rules require FASTag users to be more vigilant and proactive in managing their accounts. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Avoid Last-Minute Recharges: Don’t wait until you’re at the toll plaza to recharge. If your FASTag has been blacklisted for more than 60 minutes, a last-minute recharge won’t resolve the issue.

Penalty Refund Possibility: If you recharge within 10 minutes of a failed transaction due to low balance, you can request a refund of the penalty and pay only the standard toll.

Strict Monitoring is Essential: Ensure your FASTag is active and has sufficient balance to avoid delays, extra charges, or rejection at toll booths.

How to Avoid FASTag Issues?

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at toll plazas, follow these tips:

Maintain Sufficient Balance: Always keep an adequate balance in your FASTag wallet to avoid issues.

Regularly Check FASTag Status: Periodically check your FASTag status to ensure it is active and not blacklisted.

Monitor Transaction Times: Keep an eye on transaction times to identify any deduction delays.

Keep FASTag Active: Ensure your FASTag remains active to prevent rejection at toll booths.

While these new regulations may initially pose challenges for some users, they ultimately promote a more organized and efficient toll collection system. By encouraging proactive management of FASTag accounts—such as timely recharges and regular status checks—drivers can ensure smoother journeys on highways and minimize the risk of unexpected charges. By following these guidelines, FASTag users can avoid potential issues and ensure a seamless toll payment experience.

Disclaimer: The above information is for educational purposes and based on the latest research and development available. However, it may not fully reflect all the current aspects of the subject matter. Moneydaily.in advises readers to visit the NPCI’s official website for further information.