New Delhi | July 13, 2025 – If you're still holding your FASTag in hand at toll plazas instead of properly affixing it to your vehicle’s windshield, beware—your tag could soon be blacklisted. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a strict directive to all toll operators: any vehicle found using a “loose” or “tag-in-hand” FASTag must be immediately flagged and deactivated.

This firm stance comes as India prepares to launch the Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system and a new Annual Toll Pass Scheme on August 15, 2025. The move aims to tighten tolling discipline, eliminate misuse, and lay the groundwork for AI-based, contactless tolling across the country.

🚫 What Is a “Loose FASTag”?

A Loose FASTag refers to a FASTag that is not permanently affixed to the windshield of a vehicle. Instead, drivers manually hold or show it at toll booths. This defeats the purpose of automated and seamless toll collection, enabling potential fraud, tag swapping, and identity mismatch.

🔒 What Does the New NHAI Rule Say?

According to the latest NHAI circular:

• All toll booths must scan only affixed FASTags on windshields.

• If a driver shows a handheld or loosely placed FASTag, the tag will be blacklisted immediately.

• The vehicle owner could lose tolling privileges and may not be able to use that FASTag again.

• Repeated violations could attract penalties or additional scrutiny.

This rule will apply to all toll booths across India and is part of NHAI’s ongoing effort to modernize and secure toll infrastructure.

🚧 Why the Crackdown Now?

The government is launching a fully digital tolling system using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras and GPS-based tracking. For this high-tech system to function correctly, each vehicle must have a FASTag that is:

• Permanently affixed

• Linked to the correct registration number

• Tied to ownership and vehicle class records

Additionally, the Annual Toll Pass System, launching on Independence Day 2025, will work only with verified and affixed FASTags. Allowing manual or floating tags undermines system integrity and can lead to serious data mismatches.

✅ What You Should Do as a Vehicle Owner

If you use a FASTag, follow these steps to stay compliant:

• Permanently stick the FASTag on the top-center of your vehicle’s windshield (from the inside).

• Ensure that it is linked to your correct RC (Registration Certificate).

• Avoid removing, reusing, or manually flashing the tag.

• If the tag is damaged or lost, request a replacement from your bank or FASTag provider.

• Regularly check your FASTag balance to avoid penalties.

🎯 NHAI's Goal With This Enforcement

NHAI’s crackdown is not just about strictness—it’s a step toward:

• Preventing toll fraud and tag duplication

• Preparing for a fully automated tolling ecosystem

• Reducing wait times and manual checks at plazas

• Increasing data accuracy and transparency in toll operations

🧾 How to Check If Your FASTag Is Blacklisted

You can easily check the status of your FASTag through your bank’s portal or FASTag app (Paytm, HDFC Bank, ICICI, etc.):

1. Log in using your registered mobile number or vehicle number.

2. Navigate to the FASTag Services section.

3. Select “Check FASTag Status.”

4. If the tag is blacklisted or inactive, a red alert will be shown.

5. For assistance, call the NHAI FASTag Helpline 1033.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Embrace the Smart Tolling Era

India is stepping into a new era of AI-powered, camera-based tolling. Practices like holding your FASTag in hand are now outdated—and non-compliant. Affixing your tag properly not only saves time at toll plazas but also protects you from penalties and ensures smoother highway travel.

Follow the rules. Drive responsibly. Toll smartly.