If your FASTag is blacklisted, a last-minute recharge may not work anymore. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced new rules for FASTag balance validation, which could impact toll payments. Under the revised guidelines, FASTag transactions will now be strictly validated based on balance status before and after toll plaza scans.
Key Changes in FASTag Balance Validation
NPCI, in a circular dated January 28, 2025, outlined two key timelines that will affect FASTag users:
- 60-Minute Rule – If a FASTag is blacklisted, marked as low balance, or on the exception list for more than 60 minutes before the vehicle reaches a toll plaza, the transaction will be declined with error code 176.
- 10-Minute Rule – If the issue is not resolved within 10 minutes after the FASTag is read at the toll plaza, the payment remains declined.
The new rules will come into effect on February 17, 2025, and aim to prevent last-minute recharges from clearing blacklisted FASTags instantly.
What Leads to a FASTag Being Blacklisted?
A FASTag can be blacklisted for several reasons:
- Insufficient balance
- Pending KYC update
- Mismatch between the vehicle’s registration number and chassis number in RTO records
If a vehicle’s FASTag falls into any of these categories, users need to act at least 60 minutes before reaching a toll booth to avoid transaction failures.
How This Rule Affects You
Experts explain that these changes will impact how FASTag users manage their accounts. Arun Moral, MD of Primus Partners, provided real-world examples:
- Immediate Blacklisting – If a FASTag is blacklisted at T1 hours and the vehicle reaches a toll plaza, the transaction will be declined, and the user will be charged double the toll fee.
- Timely Recharge – If the user recharges at least 60 minutes before or within 10 minutes after crossing the toll, the transaction will be accepted, and only the normal toll fee will be charged.
- Post-Payment Recharge – If the user recharges within 10 minutes after passing the toll, they can get a refund of the penalty charge and be charged only the standard toll amount.
Experts Weigh In on the Impact
Industry experts believe that these new rules will help improve toll management while also ensuring users maintain active FASTag accounts.
- Arun Moral (MD, Primus Partners): “This change is a relief for users who get penalized due to blacklisting. Now, they have a 10-minute window to recharge and claim a refund of the penalty charge.”
- Vipul Jai (Partner, PSL Advocates & Solicitors): “Consumers must manage their FASTag balance in advance to avoid failed transactions. Those who rely on last-minute recharges may face toll delays.”
- Abraham Koshy (Counsel, MVAC Advocates & Consultants): “The 60-minute rule prevents unauthorized transactions, and the 10-minute rule ensures smoother toll payments. This will help in reducing congestion and making highway toll payments more efficient.”
Final Takeaway
With these new FASTag rules, users must ensure they have sufficient balance well in advance to avoid disruptions at toll plazas. Keeping FASTag accounts active and updated will prevent unnecessary penalties and delays, ensuring a hassle-free highway journey.
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