Understand how FASTag works -7 steps

How does FASTag work is probably what many of us wonder when we zip through toll booths across the country. Thanks to this technology, the long queues of vehicles at toll booths are now history. While the queues continue to be as long as before, or longer, vehicles now move ahead without halting to pay the toll charges. This not only saves time but also fuel, enhancing the overall travel experience. Let us understand how a FASTag, a brainchild of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) works and ensures efficiency for the rider / driver.

The FASTag technology

At its core, FASTag uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to ensure quick toll payments. FASTag works by using special lanes at toll plazas. When your vehicle goes through one of these lanes, the toll payment is automatically done in a few seconds using the RFID technology. The money is taken from your prepaid account or bank account. It makes your journey smooth without any stops, showing how easy and useful FASTag is for paying tolls.

How FASTag scanner works

The FASTag scanner, found at toll plazas, uses RFID technology to identify the FASTag on your vehicle's windshield. As your vehicle approaches, the scanner swiftly recognises the tag and deducts the toll amount from your linked account. This seamless process ensures uninterrupted passage, eliminating delays for commuters.

The efficiency of FASTag highlights technological advancements in toll collection, streamlining journeys for all. It's like a smart gadget that makes toll payment quick and hassle-free, allowing you to maintain your pace without interruption. FASTag's innovation exemplifies the convenience and ease it brings to toll payments, marking a significant step forward in travel convenience.

FASTag operation at toll plazas

1. FASTag installation: A FASTag is affixed to the windshield of vehicles, usually near the rearview mirror. It contains an RFID chip and antenna, along with a unique identification number.
2. RFID technology: RFID is the underlying technology used by FASTag. When a vehicle equipped with a FASTag approaches a toll plaza, RFID readers installed overhead or at the toll booths emit radio waves.
3. Tag detection: As the vehicle moves closer to the toll booth, the RFID reader detects the FASTag affixed to the windshield. The reader sends out a radio signal, which activates the RFID chip in the FASTag.
4. Data transmission: The RFID chip transmits the unique identification number stored within it to the reader. This number is linked to the vehicle owner's prepaid account or bank account information.
5. Transaction process: The RFID reader captures the transmitted data and forwards it to the toll plaza's backend system. The backend system retrieves the associated account information linked to the FASTag identification number.
6. Toll deduction: After verifying the account details, the toll plaza's backend system deducts the appropriate toll amount from the vehicle owner's linked account.
7. Confirmation and record keeping: After the toll amount is deducted, the backend system generates a transaction record, confirming the successful payment. This record is stored for reference and accounting purposes.

Also Read: How to recharge your FASTag?

Conclusion

The implementation of FASTag is a significant leap towards modernising toll collection on Indian highways. By harnessing RFID technology, FASTag simplifies toll payments, reduces travel time and contributes to a smoother, more efficient roadway experience.

Incorporating Axis Bank's FASTag offers a seamless way to manage your toll payments. Easy to purchase and recharge, Axis Bank's FASTag ensures you are always ready for the road, making your journeys smoother and more efficient.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.