There are several reasons why a FASTag might become inactive. Here are some of the most common:
1. Insufficient Balance or Unused Funds
One of the most common reasons for a FASTag to be blacklisted is insufficient balance. FASTag accounts must have a minimum balance for toll payments. If the balance is too low or if there is no sufficient amount for repeated toll crossings, the tag can be deactivated or blacklisted.
2. Violation of Toll Rules
If the vehicle passes through a toll booth without sufficient balance in the FASTag account, it might be marked as a violation. Repeated violations or unpaid fines can lead to the account being blacklisted.
3. Non-Registration of Vehicle Details
A vehicle’s registration details must match the data stored in the FASTag system. If the vehicle’s details (such as license plate number) are incorrectly entered or updated, it could result in the tag being blacklisted. It is important for users to ensure their vehicle registration details are accurate and up to date with the FASTag provider.
4. Bank-Related Issues
Sometimes, the problem can stem from issues at the issuing bank. For example, if there is an error with linking the FASTag to a bank account or payment method, the system may automatically blacklist the FASTag.
5. Use of Multiple FASTags for the Same Vehicle
Having multiple FASTags linked to the same vehicle can cause confusion in the toll system. When a vehicle uses multiple tags simultaneously, the system might treat it as an error, resulting in the blacklisting of one or more FASTags.
6. Delayed or Missed Renewal
FASTags have a validity period, and if users fail to renew their tags or accounts on time, the system may blacklist the tag to prevent it from functioning. It’s crucial to stay on top of renewal notifications sent by the bank or issuer.
7. Technical Glitches
While rare, technical issues at toll plazas can also cause FASTags to malfunction and get blacklisted. Problems such as network failures, incorrect reading of tags, or miscommunication between toll booths and banks can lead to the tag being flagged for issues that were not caused by the user.
8. Failure to Follow Mandatory Registration Process
In some cases, users may not follow the complete registration process required for FASTag activation, such as submitting necessary documents or completing the required steps in the FASTag issuance process. This can prevent the system from fully verifying the account, leading to blacklisting.
Steps to Activate a Blacklisted Inactive FASTag
If your FASTag has been blacklisted or deactivated, it can cause issues when trying to make toll payments. The process to reactivate or activate a blacklisted FASTag can vary depending on the cause of blacklisting. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you reactivate an inactive or blacklisted FASTag.
1. Verify the Status of Your FASTag
- Check Online: Many FASTag providers offer a portal or app where you can check the status of your FASTag. This will help you understand if your FASTag is indeed blacklisted, and you may get insights into why it was flagged.
- Via SMS: Some banks provide an SMS service where you can check the status of your FASTag. The message will indicate whether your FASTag is active or blacklisted.
2. Identify the Reason for Blacklisting
- Balance Issues: If the tag was blacklisted due to insufficient balance, you will need to add funds to your account. The FASTag provider might allow you to reactivate it once sufficient balance is restored.
- Toll Violations: If you have unpaid toll violations or fines, these need to be cleared before reactivating your FASTag. Each toll violation might have a specific process for payment through your bank or FASTag issuer.
- Registration Errors: Ensure your vehicle registration details are up-to-date. If there is any discrepancy, your tag may have been blacklisted due to a mismatch.
3. Resolve Issues with Your Bank or FASTag Provider
- Contact Customer Support: Reach out to your FASTag provider’s customer support. They can provide assistance regarding the specific reason for the blacklisting and guide you on the necessary steps to resolve it.
- Online Reactivation: Many providers allow you to reactivate your FASTag through their online portal or mobile app once the issue is fixed, such as paying pending dues or updating vehicle details.
4. Make Payments for Violations or Fines
- If the FASTag was blacklisted due to unpaid toll violations or fines, you need to pay these fines to get the tag reactivated. Payment can be made directly through the toll collection center or online via the FASTag provider’s website.
- Source: Times of India explains how to clear toll fines via the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) system.
5. Update Vehicle Registration Information
- If incorrect vehicle details are the reason for the blacklisting, contact your FASTag provider or bank to update your vehicle information. This may involve submitting the correct registration documents.
- Bank-Specific Portals: Some banks allow users to update their vehicle details directly via their FASTag portal. Ensure that the registration number, chassis number, and other details match the information stored with the bank or toll collection agency.
6. Reactivate via the Issuing Bank’s Website or App
- Log into the Bank’s Portal: Once the issue is resolved, log into your FASTag provider’s website or mobile app. You should see an option to activate or reactivate the blacklisted FASTag.
- Use the Online Facility: Some banks offer an online reactivation facility, which allows users to request reactivation without needing to visit a branch.
7. Confirm FASTag Activation
- Verification: After completing the above steps, verify the activation status of your FASTag through the bank’s website or app. You may also receive a confirmation SMS or email once your FASTag is active again.
- Test at Toll Booth: The ultimate test is to use your FASTag at a toll booth to ensure it’s functioning properly.
8. Prevent Future Blacklisting
- Maintain Sufficient Balance: Ensure your account always has enough balance for toll payments.
- Check Vehicle Details Regularly: Keep your vehicle details updated with the FASTag provider.
- Monitor Violations: Regularly check for any pending toll violations and clear them as soon as possible.
