FASTag Alert: As Annual Toll Policy In Works; Here's How To Buy FASTag, And Stay Safe From Blacklist

FASTag Alert: Years after completely overhauling the toll tax system for vehicles with FASTag, the central government is planning to further simplify the process by launching a FASTag annual pass system for vehicle owners.

The proposed policy allows vehicle owners to make a one-time payment of Rs 3,000 to get an annual pass and travel unlimited distance on road across India on their FASTag account, reported Times of India on Saturday. Apart from the FASTag annual toll pass policy, the government will reportedly bring distance-based pricing, allowing a flat rate of Rs 50 per 100 kilometres.

As the new FASTag policy is currently under consideration, and an official announcement is awaited, let's understand how to purchase a new FASTag online and offline, and potential reasons for blacklisting of FASTag account.

What Is FASTag?

It is a device which utilises Radio Frequency Identification (RFIC) technology for making toll payments while the vehicle is in motion. The device is fixated on the windscreen of the vehicle, and appears similar to a sticker. Whenever a vehicle reaches closer to a toll, the fixed FASTag (RFID Tag) lets vehicle owner to make payment directly from the account linked to FASTag.

According to the Indian government, FASTag is operational in more than 700 toll plazas, including all national highways (NHs) and over 100 state highway toll plazas in India.

Is FASTag mandatory in India?

The government of India made FASTag mandatory for all four-wheelers and above from 1 January 2021. Personal vehicles without FASTag would require paying double of toll tax.

FASTag Annual Toll Policy: How To Purchase A New FASTag?

As per the TOI report, vehicle owners with FASTag can avail the benefit of upcoming FASTag annual toll policy or revised rates. However, it is mandatory to purchase a new FASTag on its expiry. FASTag is valid till five years from the date of issuance. IT can be purchased online as well as offline.

According to National Highway Authority of India, FASTag can be purchased offline from all NH toll plazas, or over 40,000 point-of-sale locations set up by 26 member banks. It can also be purchased from bank branches of 26 certified banks, RTOs and Transport hubs. People can also search for their nearest point of sale to purchase FASTag using 'My FASTag app'

-Go to Flipkart App or other e-commerce websites. Search for FASTag, check the available option and place an order.

-Other method to purchase FASTag online is via Paytm application, or via portals of banks like ICICI Bank (iMobile App), Axis Bank, IDFC First Bank, Airtel Payments Bank (via Airtel App), etc.

While applying for FASTag, users may require documents like their self-declaration, unique identification number (Aadhaar) or any other officially valid document, copy of vehicle registration certificate, etc.

How To Avoid FASTag Blacklisting?

A FASTag is blacklisted when the issuer bank blocks its usage for payment of toll tax at toll plaza. One of the main reasons of FASTag blacklisting is insufficient balance on FASTag account. To avoid such actions, make sure to recharge your FASTag whenever you get a low balance alert.

Additionally, FASTag can also get blacklisted in case of tag class mismatch, non-affixation on the windscreen and carrying in hand, etc.