In an attempt to increase the adoption rate of the FASTag digital payment system, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will be waiving the Rs 100 cost of the FASTags from February 15-29, 2020. This means anyone who hasn’t already purchased a FASTag can pick one up free of cost from any authorised physical retail location with a valid registration certificate (RC). However, it is worth noting that minimum balance for the FASTag (and the security deposits for it) will still be applicable.
A quick refresher for those who don’t know – FASTag is a passive device that is fixed to a car’s windscreen; it uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to enable the FAStag to make cashless toll payments without requiring the vehicle to stop and wait in a queue. While the vehicle is still in motion, the FASTag is detected by dedicated readers positioned in toll plazas, which charge the appropriate amount from whichever account or virtual wallet is linked to the FASTag.
NHAI FASTag’s can be purchase from a variety of retail locations, including RTOs, transport hubs, petrol pumps, and all national highway toll plazas. FASTags were made mandatory on January 15, 2020, after the Government of India extended its deadline from December 15, 2019.