FASTags with Incomplete KYC to Face Deactivation or Blacklisting By the End of This Month | NHAI Press Release

In a significant move to streamline the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system on National Highways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the implementation of the ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ initiative. This initiative is set to enhance the National Highway experience for millions of users. Central to this initiative is the mandatory requirement for FASTag users to complete their ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process. FASTags with incomplete KYC are slated to be deactivated or blacklisted by banks post 31st January 2024.

Key Changes and User Compliance

• FASTags and KYC Completion: To avoid inconvenience and ensure compliance with the new guidelines, FASTag users must complete the KYC process as per the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) guidelines. Users holding FASTags with a valid balance but with incomplete KYC will face deactivation or blacklisting after the January 2024 deadline.
• Adherence to ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Policy: Users are required to comply with the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ policy, which discourages the use of a single FASTag across multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a single vehicle. This policy aims to prevent misuse and enhance the efficiency of toll operations.
• Deactivation of Old FASTags: Users are advised to discard all previously issued FASTags through their respective banks, as only the latest FASTag account shall remain active. Previous tags will be deactivated or blacklisted after the deadline.

NHAI’s Motivation Behind the Initiative The ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ initiative was prompted by recent reports of multiple FASTags being issued for single vehicles and the issuance of FASTags without the necessary KYC, a violation of RBI’s mandate. Furthermore, the improper use of FASTags, such as not affixing them to the vehicle’s windscreen, has been leading to delays at toll plazas, causing inconvenience to other highway users.

Impact and Benefits FASTag, with a penetration rate of around 98 percent and over 8 crore users, has already revolutionized India’s Electronic Toll Collection system. This initiative by NHAI is expected to further streamline toll operations and ensure a seamless and comfortable journey for National Highway users. The ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ policy, combined with complete KYC compliance, is a step towards more efficient and user-friendly toll experiences.

Seeking Assistance For assistance or queries related to FASTags, users can contact the nearest toll plazas or the toll-free customer care number of their respective issuer banks.

Based on a press release by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways