We are living in a digital era where everything, including food, shopping, medical facilities, payments, etc, has gone online. Then why should the way we travel remain behind? This is where the NHAI introduced FASTag a long time ago to make our toll payments easier and faster. They have collaborated with various reputed banks like ICICI Bank to issue FASTags. But what are some technical advances that can help make FASTags better? And is there a future for it? Read this blog post to learn all about the future of FASTags in India and how you can get one.
Benefits of FASTag
1. Smoother and Quicker Travel
The ease of automated toll payments is FASTag’s greatest direct advantage. No more scrambling for cash or standing in huge lines. You can easily drive through toll plazas and save time and hassle while travelling with FASTag. As a result of this efficiency, driving becomes smoother and more pleasurable.
2. Precise Toll Subtraction
With FASTag, you can be confident that toll deductions are accurate and determined by your car’s category and distance driven. Because of its precision, there is no chance of overcharging. Additionally, comprehensive transaction logs are provided, which facilitates better spending tracking.
3. Lessening of Congestion in the Traffic
FASTag facilitates the payment of tolls more efficiently, reducing traffic at toll booths. This helps by cutting down on travel time and making traffic move more smoothly overall. Reduced traffic equals shorter wait times and a more effective trip.
What is the Future of FASTag in India?
1. Improved RFID Technology
FASTag’s RFID technology is constantly developing. Future additions include more precise detecting capabilities and quicker data transfer. This might result in even faster toll payments, lowering the possibility of delays and guaranteeing more efficient traffic flow at toll plazas.
2. Combination with Tracking Systems for Vehicles
FASTag will be integrated with cutting-edge car tracking technologies. This interface might make real-time data on traffic conditions and car location available. For example, you may get notifications about impending tolls or traffic bottlenecks, which would help you better plan your trip and minimise delays.
3. Improved Methods of Payment
Future improvements may provide more adaptable payment choices. One way to simplify the procedure would be to integrate FASTag with mobile payment apps or digital wallets. This would make it easier for drivers to manage their finances by enabling them to immediately recharge FASTag accounts using well-known payment channels.
4. Personalised Services and Data Analytics
As more data is gathered, FASTag systems will be able to provide customised services based on your driving habits. For example, you could get offers and discounts based on your driving preferences or individualised route recommendations. Improved data analytics might also enhance road safety and the effectiveness of toll collecting.
5. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) or Global Positioning System (GPS)
Toll payment systems based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) or Global Positioning System (GPS) detect vehicle movement using satellite technology, enabling toll collection depending on the distance travelled. Cars pass toll booths continuously, saving fuel and time on trips. Tolls per km will be computed, and distances will be tracked using Onboard Units (OBUs). This technology promises a smoother experience with no lines at toll booths.
6. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)
To process toll payments, ANPR systems use high-speed cameras to collect vehicle number plates. The driver’s bank account is instantly debited for the toll. Nonetheless, difficulties, such as the many languages and plate designs in India, may affect accuracy. Reading problems may arise on plates with more than nine numbers, which might result in lost money.
How to Get a FASTag?
Here’s how to get a FASTag from ICICI Bank-
- Using Internet Banking
– Log in with your credentials to the ICICI Bank internet banking interface.
– Go to the digital banking or FASTag services area.
– Locate the FASTag application option, then fill out the form with the information about your car.
– Finish the FASTag payment and send in your application.
– A confirmation and information on tracking the arrival of your FASTag will be sent to you.
- Using the iMobile Pay App
– Open the iMobile Pay app on your smartphone and sign in using your bank account information.
– Select the services option and navigate to the FASTag area.
– Fill out the application with the information about your car.
– Verify your application, pay for the FASTag if necessary, and submit it.
– You will be informed about the delivery and status of your FASTag.
Conclusion
FASTag has a promising and exciting future in India. Thanks to improvements in RFID technology, integration with car monitoring systems, and improved payment choices, FASTag is expected to become even more effective as technology develops. With these enhancements, drivers will benefit from more convenience and customisation, which will streamline and simplify toll payments.
There are currently several notable advantages of using FASTag, including quicker travel times, precise toll deductions, fewer traffic jams, and improved road safety. As FASTag develops and becomes a crucial component of India’s smart city plans, driving pleasure will substantially improve, and car owners will benefit even more.
