To eliminate long queues and jams across the country, the Government of India (GOI) had decided to make it mandatory for all four-wheeler vehicles to install a FASTag on them. This tag would help them cross all toll plazas that are on the National Highways Authority of India without having to stop for cash payments.
Eliminating the manual collection of tax in cash at toll plazas, the FASTag uses a Radio Frequency Technology Device (RFID) to detect the tag on a vehicle and deduct the amount from the linked digital wallet as the toll tax amount.
Benefits of Using FASTag
There are multiple reasons owing to which FASTag has been made mandatory by the government. These reasons lie in favour of both the government and the travellers. Let’s take a look at them-
- Reduced fuel consumption: With reduced waiting time at toll plazas, vehicles can maintain a steady speed, leading to lower fuel consumption and emissions.
- Track your expenses: FASTag provides users with a detailed statement of all transactions, allowing you to keep track of your toll expenses easily.
- Online recharge: FASTag can be recharged online, making it convenient and easy to manage your account balance.
- Interoperability: FASTag can be used across all toll plazas on national highways, allowing for seamless travel without the need for multiple tags.
- Increased transparency: FASTag transactions are electronically recorded, reducing the chances of human error or corruption.
- Reduced traffic congestion: By enabling a faster and smoother flow of vehicles through toll plazas, FASTag helps in reducing traffic congestion on highways.
- Promotes digital payments: FASTag promotes the use of digital payments, contributing to the government’s initiative to create a cashless economy.
FAQs
What is a FASTag?
FASTag is a cashless toll payment system where toll charges are automatically deducted from a prepaid account linked to the user's vehicle. It eliminates the need to stop and pay tolls in cash.
What are the benefits of using FASTag?
Using FASTag offers several benefits, such as saving time by avoiding long queues at toll booths. It also provides convenience by allowing one wallet for tolls, fuel expenses, parking, and shopping. Users can also avail of various offers and discounts by recharging their FASTag through mobile applications like Paytm.
How does FASTag work?
FASTag is linked to a prepaid account and is affixed to the vehicle's windscreen. When the vehicle passes through a toll plaza, the toll amount is automatically deducted from the linked prepaid account using RFID technology.
Is it mandatory to have FASTag?
Yes, it is mandatory to have FASTag installed on four-wheeler vehicles since 16th February 2021. Without FASTag, you will have to pay double the toll amount at toll plazas.
What if I don't have FASTag for my vehicle?
If you don't have FASTag, you will have to pay double the toll amount at every toll plaza you cross.
