New FASTag rules effective today: Key changes and what users need to know
PTC Web Desk: New FASTag regulations have come into effect today, introducing stricter guidelines for payment verification and usage at toll plazas across India. According to a circular issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on January 28, FASTag transactions will now be validated within a specific timeframe once scanned at toll booths.
What is FASTag?
FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that enables cashless payments at toll plazas. It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll charges from a linked bank account, prepaid wallet, or payment app. The FASTag sticker is affixed to the vehicle's windshield, allowing RFID sensors at toll booths to scan the tag and deduct the payment, enabling a seamless passage.
Key changes in FASTag rules
Blacklisted FASTags: No transactions allowed
If a FASTag is blacklisted, placed on a hotlist, or marked as low balance for over 60 minutes before arriving at a toll plaza, the transaction will be declined.
If the FASTag remains blacklisted for 10 minutes after scanning, the payment will be rejected.
In cases where both conditions are met, the system will generate an error code 176, and the vehicle will be charged double the toll fee as a penalty.
Grace period for recharging
Users now have a 70-minute window before reaching the toll booth to update their FASTag status.
If a FASTag is recharged within 10 minutes of an attempted transaction, users can request a penalty refund and pay the standard toll fee.
Delayed transactions: Additional charges
If a toll payment is processed more than 15 minutes after passing the toll reader, additional charges may apply.
Chargebacks: Cooling period introduced
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
If a FASTag is blacklisted for over 60 minutes before reaching a toll, recharging it at the last moment won't resolve the issue.
Users can get a penalty refund if they recharge within 10 minutes of scanning and avoid paying double toll charges.
Users must ensure their FASTag remains active to avoid delays, additional charges, or payment rejection at toll plazas.
Tips to Avoid FASTag issues
Maintain a sufficient balance in your FASTag account.
Regularly check the FASTag status to avoid blacklisting.
Monitor transaction times to identify any deduction delays.
Ensure the FASTag is active to avoid rejections at toll booths.
- With inputs from agencies
