To improve efficiency, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will enforce FASTag new rules starting February 17, 2025. These changes aim to simplify toll transactions and minimise fraudulent activities. Below are the key updates:
Blacklisted FASTags:
Under the new rules, toll payments will be declined if a FASTag is blacklisted upon reaching the toll plaza. Additionally, if the FASTag was blacklisted at least 10 minutes before being scanned, the payment will also be rejected.
Impact of Blacklisting:
If a FASTag is blacklisted at the toll plaza, the user may be required to pay double the toll charge. However, if the FASTag is recharged within 10 minutes of being scanned, the user can request a penalty refund.
Grace Period:
A 70-minute grace period has been introduced to assist FASTag users. This allows users to resolve issues with their FASTag status before crossing the toll booth.
Delayed Transactions:
If toll transactions are processed more than 15 minutes after a vehicle passes the toll reader, additional charges may be applied to the user’s account.
Chargebacks:
Banks can only initiate chargebacks for incorrect deductions related to blacklisted or low-balance FASTags after a mandatory 15-day cooling period.
These measures are designed to enhance the overall experience for FASTag users while ensuring smoother and more secure toll transactions.