NHAI has directed banks to blacklist FASTags found linked to incorrect or invalid VRNs. 

Why in News?

To enhance the efficiency of highway travel and prevent revenue leakage, NHAI has directed FASTag-issuing banks to verify that every FASTag is linked correctly to the specific vehicle's registration number. This move follows reports of road users using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or failing to update vehicle details after acquiring a tag through temporary registration.

Key Highlights of the New Guidelines

• VRN Linking: It is now mandatory for every FASTag to be mapped to the correct Vehicle Registration Number. Users who have tags linked only to chassis numbers (common for new vehicles) must update their registration details within a specific timeframe.
• One Vehicle, One FASTag: NHAI is strictly enforcing the One Vehicle, One FASTag initiative to discourage the practice of using one tag for multiple cars or maintaining multiple tags for a single vehicle.
• KYC Compliance: FASTags with incomplete Know Your Customer (KYC) documentation are being deactivated or blacklisted by banks, even if they have a valid balance.
• Penalty for Non-Compliance: Vehicles found at toll plazas with FASTags that do not match the vehicle's registration number or have incomplete KYC will be charged double the toll fee, similar to the penalty for entering a FASTag lane without a functional tag.

Objectives of the Move

• Reducing Congestion: By ensuring all tags are valid and properly linked, the time taken for automated scanning at toll booths is reduced, preventing long queues.
• Preventing Fraud: The measure prevents the illegal transfer of tags between vehicles, ensuring that the correct toll based on the vehicle category is collected.
• Enhanced Tracking: Mapping tags to VRNs allows for better integration with the Vahan database, assisting in law enforcement and vehicle tracking across the national highway network.

Impact on Commuters

• Mandatory Updates: Car owners who bought tags using chassis numbers must upload their permanent registration certificate (RC) on the portal of their respective FASTag-issuing bank.
• Blacklisting Risk: Failure to update details can lead to the tag being blacklisted, forcing commuters to pay cash penalties at toll plazas.
• Ease of Travel: Once verified, the seamless movement through tolls is guaranteed, reducing the need for manual intervention by toll plaza staff.

Way Forward

• User Awareness: NHAI and banks must conduct extensive awareness campaigns to inform users about the simple digital process of updating their VRN and KYC details.
• System Integration: Further integration between the FASTag ecosystem and the National Register (Vahan) can automate the verification process, reducing the burden on the end-user.
• Grace Periods: Providing a reasonable window for compliance before strictly enforcing double-toll penalties will help in a smoother transition for the general public.

Conclusion

The NHAI initiative to verify Vehicle Registration Numbers is a significant step toward a more disciplined and transparent highway tolling system in India. While it places a small administrative responsibility on the vehicle owner, the long-term benefits include faster transit times and a more secure electronic payment environment.

Source: Indian Express