All about FASTag

A FASTag is a rechargeable tag that is used to automatically deduct toll charges that allow a vehicle to pass through a toll gate without stopping for payment. It uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to make payments without cash through a prepaid account connected to it.

FASTags are fixed to the windscreen of a vehicle and an RFID antenna in the canopy of the toll gate scans the QR code and the tag identification number, following which the boom barrier lifts to allow a vehicle to pass through. The FASTag comes in seven different colors — violet, orange, yellow, pink, blue, green, and black. Each category of vehicle is assigned with a particular color.

Benefits of FASTag

For Vehicle Owners:

• Hassle-free toll payments at FASTag toll plazas

• No long queues

• Non-stop movement of vehicles can lead to lower fuel costs

• Various payment options like credit/debit cards, NEFT, etc. can be used for online FASTag recharge

• Up to 0.5%* cashback

• FASTags can be linked to insurance policies helping customers to do away with the urgency of carrying the policy documents

For Government:

• Better highway management

• Brings on transparency in toll transactions

• Reduction in revenue leakages

• Greater project accountability

For Toll Operators:

• Cashless payments without the involvement of change

• Reduced time is taken to process tolls

• No customer aggression due to long queues and change

• Reduced operational costs

• Better audit control through centralised user accounts

FASTags colours and Vehicles

a) Class 4 vehicle (Car , Jeep , Van) – VIOLET

b) Class 5 vehicle (Light commercial vehicle, Minibus)- ORANGE

c) Class 6 vehicle (Bus and Truck 3 axle)- YELLOW

d) Class 7 vehicle (Bus and Truck 2 axle)- GREEN

e) Class 12 vehicle (Bus and Truck 4/5/6 axle)- PINK

f) Class 15 vehicle (Truck 7 or more axle)- BLUE

g) Class 16 vehicle (Heavy construction machinery and earth moving equipment)- BLACK

Conclusion

Getting stuck in long queues while crossing NHAI tolls is perhaps something we have all experienced at some point. National Highways Authority of India or NHAI plans to make this a thing of the past by launching NHAI FASTag program. This implementation by the Indian government has been applauded by all, which is evident from the fact that automatic collections at toll plazas along national highways, in conjunction with toll plaza free passes, has led to 24% increase in electronic toll revenue. Indian transportation as we know is the backbone of Indian economy, and with this move, this backbone will only strengthen.

Get in Touch

For any questions regarding FASTag, reach us at sales@omniatags.com