The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has directed all FASTag issuing banks to immediately verify Vehicle Registration Numbers (VRNs) linked to FASTag accounts, with an aim to improve the accuracy and reliability of India’s e-toll collection system.
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In an official statement, the Highways Authority said that the move comes after multiple complaints where the registration number captured by FASTag scanners did not match the number displayed on the vehicle’s number plate. Such mismatches could weaken enforcement systems, lead to potential leakage of revenue, and may also attract penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, NHAI noted.This issue was particularly observed in older FASTags that were released before integration with the VAHAN database.
During that period, verification processes were more manual and less robust, which could lead to inconsistencies in vehicle data.
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NHAI stressed that accurate assignment of vehicle registration numbers using FASTags is crucial, especially with the rollout of upcoming technologies such as Multi-Lane Free Flow Tolling (MLFF). Under this system, the collection and enforcement of fees, including issuing electronic notices to violators, will depend heavily on accurate vehicle identification.
As part of the directive, banks have been asked to conduct urgent verification of FASTags issued by them. Any FASTags associated with incorrect or invalid registration numbers will be blacklisted in line with government guidelines.Stay tuned to TOI Auto for latest updates on the automobile sector and follow us on our social media on Facebook, Instagram and X.
