NHAI Ensures Smooth FASTag Payments

21 Feb 2025 CW Team

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has assured that highway users will not face disruptions due to the new FASTag transaction norms introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

The NPCI’s circular, effective from February 17, aims to prevent delayed transactions caused by inactive FASTags at toll plazas. According to NHAI, this move will ensure that payments are settled in real time, reducing customer inconvenience.

"The circular has been issued by NPCI to facilitate resolution of disputes between acquirer bank and issuer bank on FASTag status while vehicle crosses toll plazas," NHAI stated.

All National Highway toll plazas operate on ICD 2.5 protocol, which provides real-time tag status, allowing users to recharge their FASTags anytime before crossing a toll booth. However, some state highway tolls still run on the older ICD 2.4 protocol, requiring periodic updates. NHAI plans to upgrade these toll plazas soon.

To avoid payment delays, FASTag users are encouraged to link their wallets to UPI, current, or savings accounts with auto-recharge enabled. Customers can also recharge via UPI, net banking, and other digital payment methods before reaching the toll plaza.

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