Starting November 15, highway users who do not have a FASTag, or whose FASTag is invalid or non-functional, will be allowed to pay 1.25 times the regular toll using UPI. This change is a significant relief, as current rules require those without a valid FASTag to pay double the toll in cash.

The new rule, which comes via a notification issued on Friday, aims to eliminate cash transactions at toll plazas, which often lead to revenue leakage. Currently, nearly 98% of toll collections are made through FASTag. However, some people still pay in cash because they don't have a FASTag, their tag is invalid, or they have insufficient balance in their FASTag wallet.

The notification specifies that if a vehicle with a valid and functional FASTag and sufficient balance is unable to pay the toll due to malfunctioning electronic toll collection infrastructure, the user will be allowed to pass the toll plaza without payment. In these instances, a zero-transaction receipt must be issued.

The notification also mandates that toll collection agencies issue receipts that specify the date and time of payment, the total amount received, and the vehicle class for which the toll was paid. These measures are designed to ensure accountability and maintain high-quality toll collection systems.

In related news, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will install Project Information Sign Boards with QR codes along National Highway stretches. These boards will offer project-specific information and emergency helpline numbers to commuters and will be placed near rest areas, toll plazas, truck lay-byes, highway start/end points, and other signage.

FASTag is linked to each vehicle based on the vehicle's RC copy. If there is a mismatch, the electronic toll collection system at the toll plaza will detect the class mismatch, and the FASTag may be blacklisted by the issuing bank.