The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has issued new guidelines declaring that vehicles without a properly affixed FASTag on their windscreen will be charged double the toll fee. This action aims to reduce delays at toll plazas and ease traffic flow.
The guideline highlights the inconvenience caused by vehicles without FASTags, leading to longer wait times and frustration for others traveling through highways. To combat this, NHAI has implemented strict rules ensuring that all vehicles have FASTags properly affixed to the front windshield.
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NHAI has also provided toll collection agencies with detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), mandating them to charge double fees for vehicles without a visible FASTag. Information about this penalty will be prominently displayed at toll plazas to inform drivers of the consequences of not using a FASTag.
CCTV Cameras for affixed FASTag & VRN Verification
To execute this rule, CCTV cameras will capture the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) of cars without FASTags. This footage will be used to verify and record samples of non-compliance, to ensure accurate toll collection.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways says following these established procedures is important for the smooth operation of toll plazas. It will not allow vehicles without a properly affixed FASTag to use Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) and will charge them double. Additionally, they may blacklist these vehicles from using ETC lanes in the future.
Issuer banks have been instructed to ensure that FASTags are affixed to the front windshield of vehicles at the time of issuance at various points of sale (POS). This step is to prevent any confusion and provide compliance with the new guidelines.
By enforcing these rules, NHAI aims to simplify toll collection and reduce traffic at toll plazas, ultimately improving the travel experience for those who are driving on highways.
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