New Rules are to be implemented from the new Financial Year

FASTag consumers may incur extra fees if the toll transactions are made more than 15 minutes after the car goes through the toll reader, as per a Moneycontrol report and other sources.

If the wallet of the FASTag user is not in balance, then the toll operator will be penalized for the delay, as per revised National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) guidelines.

In case the amount is drawn back despite the delay, users can file a dispute, but only after a required 15-day cooling period.

Chargeback Rules

Banks can initiate chargebacks for wrongful deductions about blacklisted or low-balance FASTags only after 15 days under the new regulations.

In case a chargeback is initiated prior to the cooling period, it will be rejected automatically with error code 5290 (Cooling period not completed). The date of implementation of these changes in the NETC system will be notified separately.

If the FASTag is inactive for more than 60 minutes before the transaction

As per the new guidelines, in case a FASTag has not been used for more than 60 minutes until the vehicle approaches the toll and also stays unused for 10 minutes afterward, the transaction will be refused.

Payments declined because of this rule will display reason code 176, and the Effective Date since these changes have been inculcated is February 17, 2025.

How can FASTag users avoid these issues?

1. Maintain adequate balance in your FASTag wallet.

2. Watch for transaction timing to prevent surprising delays.

3. In case of an incorrect charge, wait for 15 days before filing a dispute.

4. Check your FASTag status from time to time to avoid rejections for inactivity.

Conclusion

The new FASTag rules are intended to make toll payments more streamlined and reduce disputes over transactions. With rules in place for late transactions and chargebacks, the system is made transparent and accountable for both the users and the toll operators. FASTag users are requested to keep their wallet balance sufficient, check FASTag transaction timing, and remain informed about their FASTag status to prevent any penalties or rejections. These amendments, which took effect on February 17, 2025, further emphasize the government's initiative to enhance the electronic toll collection process.

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