NHAI issues critical advisory for Paytm FASTag users, urging them to switch to a FASTag issued by another bank before March 15

A vital alert has been sent by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for Paytm FASTag customers, advising them to switch to a FASTag issued by another bank before the impending deadline of March 15. The agency claims that the action is necessary to provide a hassle-free journey on national highways and to prevent any fines or duplicate fees at toll booths.

The advice adheres to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directives placing limitations on Paytm Payments Bank, which have an immediate impact on Paytm FASTag customers' capacity to top up their accounts after March 15, 2024. Users can continue use their current balance to pay for tolls after this date, notwithstanding these limitations. The notification from the NHAI intends to prevent any difficulty for travellers by enabling a smooth switchover to alternative bank FASTags.

The NHAI has also revised its list of banks and financial institutions approved to issue FASTags in response to the RBI's rules. There are now 39 companies on this extensive list, including Axis Bank Ltd., HDFC Bank, and Airtel Payments Bank. As part of its endeavours to guarantee that motorists have a multitude of choices for their FASTag requirements, NHAI has released this update.

The NHAI's advise emphasises how crucial it is to act proactively in order to guarantee uninterrupted traffic on national routes. Users can prevent such interruptions by switching to a FASTag from an authorised financial firm or bank. 

To help customers through this change with ease, the NHAI has provided tools, such as FAQs on the Indian Highway Management Company Limited (IHMCL) website.