NHAI Issues Clarification: No Impact On FASTag Customer Experience Due To NPCI Circular
In response to recent reports suggesting changes in FASTag rules that could lead to declined transactions, the government has issued a clarification. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has confirmed that the new circular issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) does not affect FASTag users.
No Impact on Customer Transactions
The clarification comes after media channels reported that FASTags inactive for over 60 minutes before a toll transaction or 10 minutes after would be declined. However, NHAI has assured that this rule applies only to dispute resolution between banks and does not impact customer experience at toll plazas.
The purpose of the NPCI circular (dated January 28, 2025) is to streamline FASTag transactions and prevent delayed debits, ensuring that users are not charged unexpectedly after passing a toll booth. All National Highway toll plazas operate on the ICD 2.5 protocol, which enables real-time tag status updates. This means FASTag users can recharge their wallets at any time before crossing a toll plaza without facing any disruption.
Upgrade Plans for State Highway Toll Plazas
While all National Highway toll booths are already operating on the advanced ICD 2.5 protocol, some toll plazas on State Highways still use the older ICD 2.4 version, which requires frequent tag status updates. The government is actively working on upgrading these toll plazas to the latest protocol to enhance user experience.
Encouragement for Auto-Recharge Feature
To avoid any inconvenience, FASTag users are encouraged to link their wallets to UPI, current, or savings accounts with auto-recharge settings. This will eliminate the need for manual top-ups and ensure seamless transactions. Customers can also continue to recharge through multiple channels such as UPI, net banking, and mobile wallets before reaching a toll booth.
The government reassures FASTag users that there are no new restrictions on recharging or using FASTag, and transactions will continue to function smoothly at all toll plazas.
Please check NHAI press release and NCPI circular meant for banks in this regard for further clarification.
