In a bid to further streamline Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) systems across the country, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has rolled out the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative. This strategic move aims to discourage the prevalent practice of using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a single vehicle.
As part of the initiative, NHAI is actively encouraging FASTag users to complete the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process for their latest FASTags. This KYC update aligns with the guidelines set forth by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). It is crucial for FASTag users to ensure that their latest FASTag KYC is completed by January 31, 2024. FASTags with valid balances but incomplete KYC after this date will face deactivation or blacklisting by banks.
To prevent inconvenience, users are urged to comply with the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ principle and discard all previously issued FASTags through their respective banks. After January 31, 2024, only the latest FASTag account will remain active, as previous tags will be systematically deactivated or blacklisted.
NHAI’s decision to implement this initiative stems from recent reports of multiple FASTags being issued for a single vehicle and instances of FASTags being distributed without the necessary KYC, violating RBI mandates. Furthermore, there have been instances where FASTags are not affixed to vehicle windshields as prescribed, leading to unnecessary delays at toll plazas and inconveniences for fellow National Highway users.
With a penetration rate of approximately 98 percent and a user base exceeding 8 crore, FASTag has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the Electronic Toll Collection system in the country. The ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative is poised to enhance toll operations’ efficiency, ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys for National Highway users.
For additional assistance or queries, FASTag users have been encouraged to reach out to the nearest toll plazas or contact the toll-free customer care number provided by their respective issuer banks.
