To make paying tolls easier and keep traffic moving smoothly at toll booths, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has started the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ plan. This means each vehicle should have its own FASTag, and you shouldn’t use the same FASTag for different vehicles or have more than one FASTag for one vehicle. NHAI is also urging FASTag users to complete the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process for their latest FASTag in accordance with RBI guidelines.
Importance of Completing KYC
After January 31st, banks will stop or block FASTags that have enough money in them but don’t have all the required information updated. To prevent any disruptions, users are advised to ensure that the KYC for their latest FASTag is up to date, as highlighted by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Compliance and Discarding Previous FASTags
Users are reminded to adhere to the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ policy and discard any earlier FASTags issued through their banks. Only the most recent FASTag account will remain active, as all previous tags will be deactivated or blacklisted after 31st January 2024.
Rationale Behind the Initiative
NHAI’s decision stems from instances of multiple FASTags issued for a single vehicle and FASTags distributed without proper KYC, contravening RBI regulations. Additionally, improper placement of FASTags on vehicle windshields has led to unnecessary delays at toll plazas, inconveniencing fellow highway users.
Impact of ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’
With a remarkable penetration rate of approximately 98% and a user base exceeding 8 crore, FASTag has significantly transformed the Electronic Toll Collection system nationwide. The ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative is poised to enhance toll operations’ efficiency, ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys for all National Highway users, as affirmed by the ministry.