The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has recently been in the spotlight for deciding to include FASTag details during vehicle registration or fitness certificate issuance across the country.
The Objective Behind The Decision
The decision to incorporate FASTag details during these activities is aimed at promoting smooth transit or commutation. Additionally, by encouraging the use of the electronic medium for FASTag payments, this initiative is expected to act as a deterrent against the risk of Covid-19 contagion, which could linger with cash transactions.
Understanding FASTag
Introduced in 2017 by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) under MoRTH’s supervision, FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that employs a reloadable tag feature. This feature facilitates automatic toll deduction without requiring a stop for cash-based transactions. The tag operates on Radio Frequency Identification (RFId) technology and is placed on the vehicle’s windscreen upon activation. Information stored on the tag can be read using radio waves from several feet away, eliminating the need for direct line-of-sight with the reader. The tag is linked to a prepaid account, from which the toll amount due gets deducted. However, post its introduction, many consumers were hesitant to adopt it due to technical glitches, resulting in concerns about double deductions from bank accounts or e-wallets.
Mandates by the MoRTH and VAHAN Portal
MoRTH has instructed the National Information Centre (NIC) to ensure the capture of electronic toll collection device details on the VAHAN portal. Following full integration of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) with the VAHAN portal, all information related to FASTags is now accessible through Vehicle Identification Number/Vehicle Registration Number (VIN/VRN).
Further Insight into VAHAN Portal
VAHAN portal was conceptualized as an integrated solution for vehicle registration and other associated processes such as fitness, taxes, permits, and enforcement computerization by the State Transport Department. This department is governed by the Central Motor Vehicle Regulation (CMVR) and state-specific Motor Vehicle Regulation (State MVR). VAHAN was designed to capture functionalities mandated by both CMVR and state MVRs.
National Electronic Toll Collection
The National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) was developed in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This system facilitates electronic toll collection at plazas using FASTag. Consequently, the integration of NETC with VAHAN is a significant step towards strengthening the digital infrastructure for smoother transportation in the country.
