The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is cracking down on the malpractice of using FASTags improperly at toll plazas, with a new directive aimed at blacklisting FASTags that are "kept in hand" rather than properly affixed to vehicle windshields. This measure is intended to combat congestion, misuse, and revenue loss stemming from the improper handling of FASTags.

The NHAI's concern stems from the frequent practice of drivers handing out loose or unfixed FASTags to toll collectors for payment. Despite repeated advisories against this practice, many vehicle owners continue to use FASTags in this manner. According to the IHMCL, the NHAI company dealing with toll collection and highway management, this manual handling causes lane-level congestion, creates violation issues, enables misuse in closed-loop tolling operations, generates false chargeback demands, and generally disrupts the electronic toll collection (ETC) system.

In response, IHMCL has directed federations of toll collectors, highway builders, and operators to report instances of "tags-in-hand" for immediate action. These "loose tags" will be permanently blacklisted to ensure proper FASTag usage.

This crackdown is particularly important as NHAI prepares to implement multi-lane free flow (MLFF) tolling and annual toll passes. The authenticity and reliability of the ETC system are crucial for the success of these initiatives. MLFF tolling, in particular, relies on the accurate and efficient detection of FASTags as vehicles pass through toll plazas without stopping. If FASTags are not properly affixed and read reliably, the system's effectiveness is compromised.

In addition to cracking down on "tags-in-hand," IHMCL has instructed toll operators to provide details on the misuse of "exempted FASTags". These tags are issued to individuals or vehicles that are exempt from paying tolls, resulting in a zero digital transaction when passing through toll gates. Misuse of these tags further undermines the integrity of the ETC system.

The NHAI's move to blacklist FASTags that are "kept in hand" is a significant step towards streamlining toll collection, reducing congestion, and ensuring the reliability of the electronic tolling infrastructure. By enforcing the proper use of FASTags, the NHAI aims to create a more efficient and seamless experience for highway users, while also safeguarding toll revenue.