FASTag mandatory stickers will be required for all vehicles in Maharashtra starting April 1, as announced by the Maharashtra Cabinet. This directive aligns with the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative, which aims to streamline toll payments and reduce congestion at toll plazas. The move is expected to enhance compliance with digital payment guidelines and boost efficiency across the state’s extensive road network.
NHAI’s ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Initiative
The NHAI launched its ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ policy on April 1, 2024, to ensure a single FASTag is linked to one vehicle. This step addresses issues such as multiple FASTags being issued for the same vehicle and non-compliance with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) mandatory KYC guidelines. By implementing this initiative, the government aims to reduce misuse and ensure seamless toll operations nationwide.
Amendments To Infrastructure Policies
In addition to enforcing FASTag, the Maharashtra government plans to revise the Public-Private Partnership Policy of 2014. These amendments aim to improve toll infrastructure and facilitate smoother transactions. Officials emphasize that this shift to digital payments will minimize delays at toll booths and enhance the travel experience for commuters.
FASTag’s Impact On Traffic And Payments
Introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), FASTag has revolutionized toll collection by enabling contactless payments. Effective from August 1, 2024, updated guidelines will further strengthen its implementation. This mandatory adoption underscores the government’s commitment to reducing traffic congestion and promoting cashless transactions.
The initiative marks a significant step in transforming toll payment systems, ensuring convenience for drivers and aligning Maharashtra with national toll collection standards.