Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken a substantial step towards improving the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system by introducing the 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' initiative.
In conjunction with the initiative, NHAI is urging FASTag users to complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process for their latest FASTags, aligning with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.
FASTags with valid balances but incomplete KYC may face deactivation or blacklisting by banks after January 31, 2024, according to a Ministry of Road Transport & Highways press release.
The move aims to curb malpractices such as using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or associating multiple FASTags with a particular vehicle, ensuring smoother traffic flow at toll plazas.
Effective from January 31, 2024, only the latest FASTag account will remain active, with previous tags being deactivated or blacklisted.
To obtain FASTag online, you have the option to apply through the online portals of any of the 22 authorized banks. Additionally, several authorized e-commerce retailers offer the convenience of purchasing FASTag through their websites. Simply visit their online platforms to initiate the process and acquire your FASTag card.
If you prefer the offline mode of acquisition, FASTag is available at Point-of-Sale (PoS) locations at toll plazas, certified bank branches, common service centres, and other outlets. Obtaining FASTag in India is a hassle-free process, ensuring you can easily access and benefit from this electronic toll collection system.
NHAI implemented this initiative in response to reports of malpractices, including multiple FASTags issued for a single vehicle and FASTags distributed without proper KYC, violating RBI mandates.
With a penetration rate of approximately 98 percent and over 8 crore users, FASTag has significantly improved electronic toll collection in India. The 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' initiative is expected to further enhance toll operation efficiency.