New Delhi: To ensure smooth tolling operations and strengthen the reporting of ‘loose FASTags’, NHAI has further streamlined its policy for Toll Collecting Agencies and Concessionaires to immediately report and blacklist such FASTags, which are commonly referred to as “tag-in-hand.” In view of upcoming initiatives like the Annual Pass System and Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling, addressing this issue is critical to ensure FASTag authenticity and system reliability.

FASTags are sometimes deliberately not affixed to the vehicle’s windscreen by owners. Such practices pose operational challenges, leading to lane congestion, false chargebacks, and misuse in closed-loop tolling systems. These issues disrupt the Electronic Toll Collection framework, resulting in unnecessary delays at toll plazas and inconvenience to other National Highway users.

To ensure timely corrective action, NHAI has provided a dedicated email ID and directed Toll Collecting Agencies and Concessionaires to immediately report such FASTags. Based on the reports received, NHAI will take swift action to initiate the blacklisting or hotlisting of the reported FASTags.

With a penetration rate of over 98 percent, FASTag has revolutionized the Electronic Toll Collection system in the country. However, loose FASTags or “tag-in-hand” pose a significant challenge to the efficiency of toll operations. This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency, ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys for National Highway users.