New FASTag Rules: Penalties, Blacklisting & How to Avoid Them

Highlights

• Delayed FASTag transactions (beyond 15 minutes) may lead to extra charges.
• Chargeback requests can only be raised after a 15-day cooling period.
• Blacklisted or inactive FASTags will be declined at toll plazas.
• Transactions from inactive FASTags (for over 60 minutes) will be automatically rejected.

Penalties for Delayed Transactions

• If a toll transaction is not processed within 15 minutes of the vehicle passing the toll reader, the user may be charged extra.
• If the FASTag does not have enough balance, the toll operator will be responsible for the failed transaction.
• If a user is charged incorrectly, they must wait 15 days before disputing the deduction.

New Chargeback Process & 15-Day Cooling Period

Chargebacks (Refund Requests) for Wrong Deductions:

• Users can dispute wrong deductions only after waiting for 15 days.
• If a chargeback is raised before 15 days, it will be automatically rejected with error code 5290 (Cooling period not completed).
• The exact date for implementing this in the NETC system will be announced separately.

Transactions from Inactive/Blacklisted FASTags to be Rejected

• If a FASTag has been inactive for over 60 minutes before crossing the toll and remains inactive for another 10 minutes after, the transaction will be declined.
• Such failed payments will be rejected with error code 176.

How to Avoid FASTag Penalties & Rejections

1. Keep Sufficient Balance: Always top up your FASTag wallet before traveling.
2. Monitor Transactions: If deductions don’t happen immediately, check for possible delays.
3. Wait 15 Days Before Disputing a Wrong Charge: Raising a chargeback too early will result in automatic rejection.
4. Check FASTag Activity: Ensure your FASTag is active and not blacklisted to prevent payment failures.

Important Takeaways

• Toll payments processed after 15 minutes may incur extra charges.
• Chargeback requests before the 15-day cooling period will be rejected.
• FASTags inactive for over 60 minutes may face automatic rejection.
• New rules come into effect on February 17, 2025.

Also read: SEBI Mandates Public Consultation for Rule Amendments