Concerns over reports indicating modifications to FASTag regulations that would lead to a decrease in transactions if the tag is inactive for more than 60 minutes before or up to 10 minutes following the read time have been addressed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Rejecting these allegations, NHAI explained that FASTag users are unaffected by the most recent circular from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
According to NHAI, the NPCI circular’s goal is to assist Issuer Banks and Acquirer Banks in resolving disagreements over a vehicle’s FASTag status while it travels through a toll plaza. By eliminating delays that can annoy drivers, the guideline seeks to guarantee that transactions take place in an acceptable amount of time.
NHAI informed FASTag users that the ICD 2.5 protocol, which provides real-time tag status updates, is used in all National Highway toll plazas. Allowing users to recharge their FASTag anytime they choose before entering a toll plaza, guarantees smooth travel. The outdated ICD 2.4 protocol is still used in some State Highway toll plazas, necessitating recurring tag status updates. The ICD 2.5 protocol is now being implemented at several state highway toll plazas to improve efficiency and user-friendliness.
FASTag consumers are advised to link their wallets to UPI or their bank accounts with auto-recharge settings to guarantee uninterrupted transactions. Before arriving at the toll plaza, users who prefer manual recharges can continue to top up their FASTag using UPI, online banking, or other payment methods.
NHAI reiterated that the system will continue to function properly and that FASTag users are not subject to any new restrictions. The explanation aims to dispel any misunderstandings and persuade passengers that FASTag remains a reliable and efficient method of paying tolls across the country.
