FASTag, an electronic toll collection system, has revolutionised the way vehicles pass through toll plazas in India. Despite its widespread adoption and benefits, several myths and misconceptions persist about FASTag and FASTag apps.
This article aims to debunk these myths and provide clarity on how FASTag works and its advantages.
Myth 1: FASTag is complicated to use
Fact:
FASTag is designed to simplify the toll payment process, not complicate it. The system works via Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which automatically deducts toll charges from the linked account as vehicles pass through the toll gate.
The entire process is seamless and quick, eliminating the need for manual payments and long waits at toll booths.
How it works:
The RFID tag is affixed to the vehicle’s windshield.
As the vehicle approaches the toll plaza, sensors detect the RFID tag.
The toll amount is automatically deducted from the linked prepaid or savings account.
Myth 2: FASTag cannot be recharged easily
Fact:
Recharging a FASTag account is straightforward and can be done through multiple channels, including online portals, mobile banking apps, and UPI (Unified Payments Interface). Many banks and digital wallets support FASTag recharges, making it accessible and convenient for users.
Recharge options:
Mobile banking apps and internet banking.
Digital wallets like Bajaj Pay, Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe.
Official websites of banks that issue FASTag.
Directly through the Google Pay, Bajaj Pay, or PhonePe apps.
Integration with digital wallets and UPI.
Auto-recharge features to ensure seamless transactions.
Real-time balance updates and low balance alerts.
Myth 3: FASTag does not work on all toll plazas
Fact:
FASTag is accepted at all toll plazas on national highways and many state highways across India. The Indian government has mandated the use of FASTag for toll payments to promote cashless transactions and reduce traffic congestion at toll booths.
Popular FASTag toll apps such as Bajaj Pay, Paytm, etc. offer support for transactions at all FASTag-enabled toll plazas.
Coverage:
Over 650 toll plazas on national highways.
Increasing number of state highways adopting FASTag.
Myth 4: FASTag is expensive
Fact:
The initial cost of obtaining a FASTag is nominal and is usually around Rs. 100 to Rs. 200, depending on the issuing bank. The tag also requires a refundable security deposit and a minimum balance for activation.
Considering the convenience and time saved, the cost of FASTag is justified and affordable.
Cost breakdown:
Tag issuance fee: Rs. 100 – Rs. 200.
Refundable security deposit: Rs. 200.
Minimum balance requirement: Rs. 200.
Myth 5: FASTag can be used only for toll payments
Fact:
While FASTag is primarily used for toll payments, it has other functionalities as well. It can be used for parking payments at select locations, fuel payments at certain petrol stations, and even for entry fees at some state borders.
Additional uses:
Parking fees at airports, malls, and commercial complexes.
Fuel payments at participating petrol stations.
Entry fees at select state borders.
Myth 6: FASTag information is not secure
Fact:
FASTag transactions are secure and encrypted. The system uses advanced security protocols to ensure that users’ personal and financial information is protected.
Additionally, the RFID technology used in FASTag does not store any personal data on the tag itself, minimising the risk of information theft.
Security measures:
Encrypted transactions.
Advanced security protocols.
No personal data is stored on the RFID tag.
Myth 7: FASTag leads to overcharging
Fact:
The toll charges deducted via FASTag are transparent and based on the rates set by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Users receive real-time notifications of toll deductions, which helps in monitoring and verifying the charges.
Transparency:
Real-time transaction alerts via SMS and email.
Access to transaction history through the FASTag portal or app.
Toll rates are set by NHAI and are publicly available.
Myth 8: FASTag can be misused
Fact:
FASTag is linked to a specific vehicle and cannot be used on any other vehicle. If the tag is tampered with or removed, it becomes invalid.
Moreover, the security deposit ensures that any misuse is traceable and accountable.
Preventive measures:
Vehicle-specific tagging.
Tamper-evident RFID tag.
Traceable transactions.
Myth 9: FASTag is mandatory only for commercial vehicles
Fact:
FASTag is mandatory for all vehicles, including private cars, as per the government’s directive from December 2020.
This mandate aims to streamline toll payments and reduce congestion at toll plazas.
Government mandate:
Applicable to all vehicle categories.
Enforced from December 2020.
Penalties for non-compliance.
Apps like Bajaj Pay facilitates compliance and easy integration for all vehicle owners.
Myth 10: FASTag requires constant monitoring
Fact:
Once installed and activated, FASTag requires minimal maintenance. Users only need to ensure that their FASTag account has sufficient balance for toll payments.
Automated notifications and easy recharge options make managing the account hassle-free. Monitor transactions easily through apps like Google Pay, Bajaj Pay and PhonePe.
Maintenance tips:
Keep the account balance sufficient.
Regularly check notifications for low-balance alerts.
Use auto-recharge features available with many banks and digital wallets.
Conclusion
FASTag is a revolutionary system that simplifies toll payments, reduces congestion, and promotes cashless transactions. By debunking these myths, it is clear that FASTag offers numerous benefits, including ease of use, security, and versatility.
With the integration of apps like Bajaj Pay, Google Pay and PhonePe, users can enjoy enhanced convenience, seamless transactions, and robust security features.