The transport ministry has announced that all lanes to fee plazas on national highways will be declared FASTag lanes. Other than this, any vehicle entering the lanes without FASTag will have to pay double the applicable fee.
What is FASTag?
It is an online/electronic toll collection system. It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and makes the direct payment from the linked account. It saves time and also ensures smooth movement of vehicles without having to wait in lines for toll payment. It is operated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). It was rolled out in the year 2016.
Key Points
- The mandatory use of FASTag by vehicles will be applicable from midnight of 15-16 February 2021.
- The main aim behind making FASTag mandatory is to provide for a seamless passage through the fee plazas, promote fee payment through online mode, reduce waiting time and fuel consumption.
- Also, it has been made clear that the deadline for implementing FASTag will not be extended any further.
- Before this, the government has already extended the deadline by 2-3 times. Now, it will not be extended and everyone should immediately start using FASTag.
As per the Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari said that FASTag registrations have increased by 90% on some routes, and now only 10% of people are left to still use it. FASTags are also available at toll plazas and people should purchase and use them for seamless travel.
