FASTag is an automated toll collection system initiated in 2014 as a pilot project. Since February 15, 2021, it has been mandatory for all private and commercial vehicles to own and paste the FASTag sticker on their windshield. Based on the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, it allows you to make instant toll payments without waiting in the queue.
These small electronic tags come with a 5-year validity period from the date of issuance. After the expiry of this validity period, your FASTag becomes ‘inactive’ and does not get scanned at the toll plazas. Additionally, your FASTag may also get inactive due to issues like:
- Insufficient balance
- Expired KYC
- Violation of traffic rules
Without an active FASTag, you must pay double the toll fee in cash. Even some toll points impose penalties for inactive FASTags. Thus, it is important to keep your FASTag functional and active. Want to gain more clarity? In this article, let’s see some major benefits of keeping your FASTag active.
5 major benefits of an active FASTag
Below are some benefits you enjoy with an active FASTag:
1. Auto deduction of toll charges
With FASTag, toll charges are deducted automatically from your FASTag account. The technology uses RFID, which scans the tag on your vehicle and deducts the toll instantly.
This means you don’t have to stop and pay manually in cash at toll plazas. It saves time and reduces the hassle of handling cash (especially during long journeys).
2. Save fuel and time
Since December 15, 2019, most lanes at toll plazas have been converted into FASTag-only lanes. This move leaves only one lane for vehicles without FASTags.
This means if you don’t have a FASTag, you will face longer waiting times.
With an active FASTag, you can avoid such long queues at toll plazas as you no longer need to wait for your turn to pay in cash. This reduces unnecessary stops and saves fuel.
3. Avoid paying double the toll amount
If your vehicle does not have an active FASTag, you must pay double the toll fee on national highways in India. This rule has been in force since December 15, 2019. It was introduced by the government to encourage the use of FASTags for toll payments.
4. Track all your toll payments
Leading banks and NBFCs have developed dedicated functionalities for managing the FASTags issued by them. After logging into their website or mobile apps, you can easily:
- Check your account balance
- Review your transaction history
- Set up auto-recharge instructions
Since all your toll payments are digitally recorded, you can check them anytime and analyse them for better financial management.
5. Gain nationwide coverage and multi-purpose benefits
Currently, over 773 toll plazas are operational with FASTag technology. These include both national highways and state highways. With an active FASTag, you can easily pass these highways without any halt.
Additionally, FASTags are also being used in parking areas. Several malls and parking plazas have started accepting FASTags for entry and exit payments.
See also: Effective Strategies for Minimizing Business Costs
How to keep your FASTag active
To avoid deactivation of your FASTag, follow these recommendations:
- FASTags are valid for five years from the date they are issued. So, renew on time to keep it active. Ideally, monitor their validity status using your service provider’s mobile app or website.
- If your FASTag is damaged or expired, replace it promptly. Apply for a new sticker and paste it on your car’s windshield. If needed, purchase adhesives or cleaning cloth from online marketplaces or physical stores.
- Recharge your FASTag account on time and maintain a minimum balance. Please note that insufficient balance is the main reason for deactivation.
Conclusion
By keeping your FASTag active, you can make automatic toll payments and save time by avoiding long queues. It also helps you avoid penalties, as vehicles without an active FASTag are required to pay double the toll amount.
To make sure your FASTag stays active:
- Always check its balance
- Renew it before expiration
- Replace it if damaged
- Recharge your FASTag account
Keeping it active will allow you to pass more than 773 national and state highways without halting.
