The new FASTag rules have come into effect from today bringing stricter regulations for toll payments. If your FASTag has low balance, delayed payments or is blacklisted you may face additional penalties. Let’s understand the changes and how they can impact you.

Why Were the Rules Changed.?

The new rules aim to reduce long queues at toll plazas and improve the efficiency of toll payments. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways have introduced changes to prevent fraud and streamline FASTag transactions.

Key Changes in FASTag Rules

1. Transaction Cancellation for Inactive FASTags

   - If a FASTag remains inactive for more than 60 minutes before crossing a toll or is inactive for 10 minutes after crossing, the payment will be cancelled automatically.

2. Error Code 176 for Payment Failures

   - If the system detects inactive FASTag, it will reject the transaction with “Error Code 176.”

3. Changes in Chargeback Process & Cooling Period

   - New rules introduce updated chargeback policies and a cooling period to ensure smooth transactions.

4. Extra Charges for Late Transactions

   - If a toll transaction is processed after 15 minutes of the vehicle passing through the reader users may have to pay extra charges.

5. Penalties for Delayed Payments & Low Balance

   - If a transaction is delayed and the FASTag wallet has a low balance the toll operator will be held responsible instead of the user.

6. Advance Recharge Now Mandatory

   - Previously, users could recharge their FASTag at toll booths. Now FASTag must be recharged in advance before reaching the toll plaza.

New Rules for Chargeback Process

1. Banks Can Apply for Chargeback on Wrong Deductions

   - Banks can now claim refunds for incorrect FASTag deductions. However in cases of blacklisted or low-balance FASTags, banks can apply only after 115 days.

2. Cooling Period Violations Will Be Cancelled

   - If a chargeback is processed before the cooling period ends the system will automatically reject it with Error Code 5290 (Cooling period not completed).

3. Implementation Timeline for New Rules

   - NPCI will announce the official implementation date for chargeback system changes separately.

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How to Avoid FASTag Issues.?

✅ Keep sufficient balance in your FASTag wallet.

✅ Monitor transaction timings to prevent unexpected delays.

✅ If an incorrect charge is deducted wait 15 days before filing a complaint.

✅ Regularly check your FASTag status to avoid deactivation.

FASTag Usage Growth in India

According to NPCI FASTag transactions increased from 359 million in November to 382 million in December (a 6% rise). The total transaction value also grew by 9%, reaching Rs 6,642 crore in December compared to Rs 6,070 crore in November.