Now Toll Tax Will Be Deducted Even Without FASTag Balance! NHAI’s New Technology Makes It Unavoidable

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced advanced toll collection systems to ensure seamless transactions for all commuters. With new technology in place, toll tax can now be deducted even if your FASTag has insufficient balance, making it unavoidable for vehicles on Indian highways.

This new development has sparked both curiosity and concern among vehicle owners. How does this system work? What should motorists be aware of? In this article, we will break it down in a clear, friendly, yet authoritative manner to help you understand the impact of these changes.

NHAI’s New Technology

The new NHAI toll collection system, backed by ANPR technology and FASTag integration, ensures unavoidable toll payments even if a vehicle has an insufficient FASTag balance. This move is aimed at reducing toll evasion, improving highway efficiency, and ensuring smoother travel experiences.

For vehicle owners, the best practice is to always maintain a sufficient FASTag balance, monitor transactions, and be aware of dispute resolution mechanisms. With proper awareness, this system can lead to a hassle-free highway journey for all.

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NHAI’s New Technology: How Does NHAI’s New Toll Collection System Work?

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) Technology

NHAI is implementing Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras across toll plazas. These high-tech cameras can detect vehicle registration numbers and cross-check them against a database linked to the vehicle’s FASTag account.

1. If your FASTag is low on balance or inactive, the ANPR system automatically charges the toll fee to the registered vehicle owner.
2. This ensures that no vehicle can evade toll payments by removing or not using FASTag.

Manual Entry by Toll Operators

If the system fails to detect the FASTag, toll operators have the authority to manually input the vehicle number, which can still trigger a deduction from the associated FASTag account.

This system is designed to minimize errors and avoid fraudulent practices where vehicles remove or block their FASTags to avoid toll payments.

NHAI’s New Technology: Why Has This System Been Introduced?

With the previous system, vehicles with insufficient FASTag balance or no FASTag would either face long queues or skip payments altogether. This caused revenue loss and delays.

Key Benefits of This System:

1. No more toll evasion – Every vehicle will be charged regardless of FASTag status.
2. Faster travel times – No delays caused by users recharging on the spot.
3. Reduced fraud – Prevents misuse of manually operated toll lanes.
4. Seamless tolling experience – Eliminates cash transactions and disputes.

NHAI’s New Technology: What Should Vehicle Owners Do Now?

Ensure Your FASTag is Properly Installed

Many issues arise when a FASTag is improperly placed. Ensure it is affixed to your vehicle’s windscreen as per the guidelines for uninterrupted detection.

Maintain Sufficient Balance

1. Regularly check your FASTag balance through the bank’s app or NHAI’s official website.
2. Set up auto-recharge options to avoid insufficient balance issues.

Keep an Eye on Transactions

Sometimes incorrect deductions can happen due to system errors. In such cases:

1. Contact your FASTag issuer’s customer support.
2. Raise disputes via the NHAI Helpline (1033).
3. Track transaction history through the MyFASTag app.

Avoid Manual Toll Payments

With the new system in place, manual cash payments at toll booths will be discouraged. Vehicles without FASTag may have to pay double the toll amount, as per government regulations.

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NHAI’s New Technology: Challenges and Concerns

Errors in ANPR Detection

While ANPR is highly advanced, occasional errors in reading number plates correctly can happen. This could lead to:

1. Incorrect deductions from the wrong vehicle account.
2. Double charging in rare cases.

Privacy Concerns

The system relies on tracking vehicles via their registered details, raising questions about data security and privacy. However, NHAI ensures that all data handling follows strict privacy regulations.

Dispute Resolution Time

If a vehicle is wrongly charged, getting a refund or reversal could take time. Users need to be aware of the dispute resolution process and contact points.

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NHAI’s New Technology (FAQs)