Understanding FASTag technology
If you are someone who commutes through toll plazas frequently, chances are you must have heard of FASTag. But what really is FASTag, and how does it work? In simple terms, a FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that enables hassle-free payment of toll fees at highways across India. Essentially, it is a prepaid rechargeable tag or sticker affixed to the windscreen of your vehicle, which uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to allow automated deduction of toll fees from your linked bank account.
Launched by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) in 2016, FASTag is now mandatory for all vehicles plying on national highways across India. With the Indian government promoting a cashless economy, FASTags are seen as a crucial step towards achieving that goal.
Benefits of FASTag
There are numerous benefits of using FASTags. Some of them are listed below:
- Digital payment
With FASTag, vehicle owners no longer need to stop and make cash payments at toll booths. Instead, the toll charges are automatically deducted from their linked bank account or prepaid wallet when the vehicle passes through the toll plaza. - Interoperability
FASTag is interoperable across all toll plazas in India, irrespective of the issuing bank or agency. This means that a FASTag issued by one bank can be used at any toll plaza, ensuring a seamless and consistent toll collection experience for travelers. - Online recharge
Users can easily recharge their FASTag accounts online through various channels such as bank apps, mobile wallets, and online banking services, making it convenient to maintain a sufficient balance. - Real-time alerts
FASTag users receive SMS and email notifications for toll transactions, providing real-time updates on their account balance and toll payments. - Reduced congestion
By eliminating the need for manual cash transactions, FASTag helps reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas, leading to quicker and more efficient movement of vehicles. - Environmentally friendly
The reduction in waiting time and idling at toll booths can lead to decreased fuel consumption and lower vehicle emissions, contributing to environmental conservation. - Enhanced security
FASTag transactions are secure, with robust encryption and authentication measures in place to protect users' financial information.
How does FASTag work?
A FASTag works on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which involves the use of a microchip and an antenna. The microchip in the FASTag is programmed with details such as the vehicle registration number, owner name, vehicle class, and the bank account linked to it. When a vehicle approaches a toll plaza, the RFID antenna reads the information on the FASTag and automatically deducts the toll fee from the linked bank account.
In order for the system to work, vehicle owners must first purchase a FASTag from an authorised bank or point of sale location. After a FASTag is purchased and linked to a bank account, the user can easily recharge their FASTag account online or through the bank’s mobile app.
How to get a FASTag
Getting a FASTag is a quick and easy process. Vehicle owners can purchase a FASTag through various channels including point-of-sale (POS) locations at toll plazas, online websites of partner banks, and through authorised agents and dealers.
To apply for a FASTag, vehicle owners must submit certain documents including the vehicle registration certificate (RC), a passport-sized photograph of the vehicle owner, and ID proof. The cost of a FASTag generally varies depending on the issuing bank or agency, but vehicle owners should expect to pay anywhere between Rs. 100-400.
How to use FASTag at a toll plaza
Using a FASTag at a toll plaza is a breeze. As a vehicle approaches a toll plaza, the RFID reader at the toll booth will automatically scan the FASTag on the windscreen of the vehicle. The toll amount will then be deducted from the linked bank account, and the toll plaza gate will open.
If you are a first-time FASTag user, it is important to ensure that your FASTag account is sufficiently funded before you travel. This can be done by recharging your FASTag account through the bank’s mobile app or website.
How secure is FASTag
With the increasing use of digital transactions in India, security concerns are bound to arise. However, the FASTag technology is incredibly secure. The tag itself is tamper-proof and cannot be removed without damaging it. Additionally, every transaction is encrypted and requires authentication through a PIN or password.
Furthermore, the NHAI has ensured that all banks offering FASTags are required to follow strict security guidelines and protocols in order to prevent fraud and data breaches.
How to link FASTag to a bank account
When purchasing a FASTag, vehicle owners must link their FASTag account to a bank account. This can be done by using the account number and IFSC code of the desired bank. It is important to ensure that the linked bank account is sufficiently funded in order to avoid toll booth hassle.
