Fastag will be deactivated if KYC is not done before January 31st: NHAI

In a bid to optimize the Electronic Toll Collection system and facilitate smooth passage through Toll Plazas, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative. This move seeks to deter the practice of using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or associating multiple FASTags with a specific vehicle.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways announced this initiative on Monday, emphasizing its commitment to improving the efficiency of toll collection. As part of this initiative, FASTag users are urged to promptly complete the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process for their latest FASTag, aligning with the guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

It is crucial to note that FASTags with valid balances but incomplete KYC will face deactivation or blacklisting by banks after January 31, 2024. “Only the latest FASTag account shall remain active as previous tags will be deactivated or blacklisted after 31st January 2024,” the ministry declared. Users are required to ensure the completion of KYC for their latest FASTag. Additionally, compliance with the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ directive is mandatory. Users must discard any previously issued FASTags through their respective banks to ensure adherence to this initiative.

NHAI initiated this measure following reports of the issuance of multiple FASTags for a single vehicle and instances where FASTags were provided without completing the mandatory KYC, violating RBI directives. The misuse of FASTags, including their deliberate non-placement on vehicle windscreens, has led to unnecessary delays at toll plazas, inconveniencing fellow National Highway users.

FASTag, with a remarkable penetration rate of around 98% and boasting over 8 crore users, has revolutionized the Electronic Toll Collection system in the country. In parallel developments, NHAI is planning to implement GPS-based toll collection on various routes nationwide. This initiative aims to alleviate congestion at toll booths. The pilot phase will be tested on select highway stretches before a widespread implementation. This GPS tolling system is envisioned to replace the existing FASTag system, which utilizes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for toll payments.

NHAI emphasizes that the GPS tolling system is currently in the development phase, and its implementation on a larger scale will depend on the response received during the initial stages. For further assistance or inquiries, FASTag users can contact their respective toll plazas or the toll-free customer care numbers provided by their issuer banks.
NHAI’s ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing toll operation efficiency, ensuring seamless journeys for National Highway users. As the penetration of FASTag reaches impressive levels, these measures are crucial for maintaining the system’s effectiveness and user convenience.