Streamlining Electronic Toll Collection with ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Initiative
In a move aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the electronic toll collection system, the state-owned National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has declared that FASTags with valid balances but incomplete Know Your Customer (KYC) details will be deactivated by banks post-January 31, 2024.
‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Initiative to Discourage Misuse
NHAI is introducing the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative to discourage the improper use of single FASTags for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a particular vehicle. The official statement emphasizes the importance of complying with this initiative to ensure seamless movement at toll plazas.
Urgent Call for Completing KYC Process
NHAI encourages FASTag users to promptly complete the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process for their latest FASTag. This step aligns with the guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Users are urged to update their KYC information to avoid any inconvenience, ensuring the smooth functioning of their latest FASTag.
Deactivation of Previous FASTags
To streamline the system further, the statement advises FASTag users to comply with ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ and discard all earlier-issued FASTags through their respective banks. It emphasizes that only the latest FASTag account will remain active, as previous tags will be deactivated or blacklisted after January 31, 2024.
Addressing Reports of Violations
NHAI undertakes this initiative in response to recent reports of multiple FASTags being issued for a single vehicle and instances where FASTags were issued without completing the mandatory KYC process, violating RBI mandates.
Ensuring Smooth Toll Operations
Beyond rectifying KYC-related issues, the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative is expected to streamline toll operations, reducing unnecessary delays at toll plazas. NHAI aims to provide a seamless and comfortable journey experience for national highway users.
Assistance for FASTag Users
For any queries or assistance, FASTag users can reach out to the nearest toll plazas or the toll-free customer care numbers provided by their respective issuer banks.
With a remarkable penetration rate of around 98 percent and over 8 crore users, FASTag has revolutionized the electronic toll collection system in the country. NHAI’s latest initiative underscores its commitment to ensuring the effectiveness of the system while prioritizing the convenience of highway users.
